Opening of The Naylor Building - News & Photos - McDonogh School

News & Photos

The Naylor Building Opens

A highlight of the first day of school on August 28 was the official opening of The Naylor Building, named for Irvin S. Naylor ’54, whose lead gift made possible the construction of the state-of-the-art facility. Showers held off as students, faculty, staff, and members of the Naylor family gathered at the entrance of the building at noon for a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.

The event was coordinated by the Student Government Association and included all the right elements for a memorable celebration. The student leaders created a festive atmosphere with orange and black balloon towers and ribbons, music by members of the jazz band, and sheet cakes decorated with math and science symbols. Mr. Naylor was especially touched to see everyone in attendance wearing keepsake lapel pins featuring his photograph.

After opening remarks from Student Body President Will C. ‘14 and Senior Class Vice President Chris B. ’14, Headmaster Charlie Britton thanked Naylor for his generous contribution and spoke about the opportunities the new facility will provide in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Britton challenged the students to take advantage of the many new possibilities for learning by posing the question, “What will your take-away be?” He continued, “Who knows, maybe you’ve been inspired watching the construction of this building and now dream of becoming an architect or engineer? Or maybe your inspiration comes from a faculty member or classmate. Whatever or whoever it is, I, like Mr. Naylor, hope that you all achieve your fullest potential.”

Before the official ribbon cutting, Mr. Naylor addressed the crowd, expressing his affection for McDonogh and attributing his success to this “wonderful institution.” Then, as his son Scott ’75 and Scott’s wife Becky looked on, Naylor enlisted his grandchildren, Chet ’02 and Sarah ‘07 to read the names of the other donors whose contributions have also helped bring the building and campus master plan come to life.

Following the ceremony, in which Naylor’s wife, Diane, cut the ribbon adorning the front door, many students and guests took the opportunity to personally thank Mr. Naylor and his family before heading into the building to explore the bright new laboratories and classrooms.

View coverage of the event on WMAR-TV/ABC2.

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