Carson-Newman University: “Thank you Baptist Builders”

^{Carson-Newman President Randall O’Brien, center, stands with Baptist Builders Margaret and George Bradley, left, and Joyce and Everett Willis, right, outside C-N’s historic Butler-Blanc Gym. The University honored the two couples, as well as other Baptist Builders volunteers, during a Saturday gathering on campus.}

(Nov. 12, 2013) – On Saturday, Nov. 9, members of the Carson-Newman University community welcomed Baptist Builders volunteers on the grounds outside of C-N’s historic Butler-Blanc Gymnasium.

The event served as an official “thank you” to the volunteers for their help with campus projects, including restoration efforts to Butler-Blanc. The gathering highlighted a special dedication of twin benches placed on the grounds in honor of George and Margaret Bradley, members of First Baptist Church of Greeneville, and Everett and Joyce Willis, members of First Baptist Church of Fall Branch.

“Every summer they give of their time and supervise other volunteers from other churches,” praised Carson-Newman President Randall O’Brien of the two couples, both who helped oversee many summer projects on C-N’s campus the past several years. “They just keep on giving,” added O’Brien. “You can’t out give them. “It’s our honor to dedicate these benches to the Bradleys and Willises.”

The work to Butler-Blanc led to the University’s recognition earlier this month by The East Tennessee Preservation Alliance, earning C-N an ETPA award for 2013. With a new lease on life, the facility’s use by students has seen a significant increase according to Dr. Ross Brummett, vice president for Student Affairs.

“Now it has become a second gathering place for students on campus,” said Brummett. “The bouldering wall and commuter lounge are just two of the reasons students now flock to Butler-Blanc.”

Built in 1921, Butler-Blanc Gym is Carson-Newman’s second oldest building.

 Click below to see how Baptist Builders helped to bring new life to historic Butler-Blanc Gym.