On Monday, November 28th, John Paul the Great Catholic University celebrated the grand opening of our new Student Life Center located at 200 W. Grand Ave., Escondido 92025. This historic building is the latest in a series of renovation projects revitalizing Escondido's downtown ambiance and economy.

The historic landmark brick building was built as a HomeFed Bank branch. JPCatholic purchased the property in 2015 for $1.1M. The newly renovated 5,600 sq. ft. building, which JPCatholic President Dr. Derry Connolly calls the campus living room, will provide a space for students to gather and study, and will also house the offices of various student services on the second floor.

Major funding for the building was provided by the Dan Murphy Foundation, the Stephen & Mary Birch Foundation, and Tom and Margot Kyd. Margot is a trustee of the university. Another trustee Paul Colucci enabled to University to purchase the building.

Escondido Mayor Sam Abed, City Council members Ed Gallo and John Masson, and Police Chief Craig Carter joined the JPCatholic community, including Dr. and Mrs Connolly for the special occasion and to express support of the university's growth. Kevin Meziere VP of Real Estate managed the project.