Zacharias Hall dedicated at WKU

As a crowd of more than 200 looked on recently, Western Kentucky University officially dedicated a residence hall in honor of its sixth president, Dr. Donald W. Zacharias.

Steve Briggs, Zacharias Hall director, presents President Zacharias with a "Zach Shack" T-shirt at the conculsion of the dedication ceremony.

The naming of Zacharias Hall "will change this dormitory forever," said Joe Bill Campbell, a Bowling Green, Ky., attorney and former chair of Western's Board of Regents during Zacharias' presidency. "It is no longer simply a dormitory housing students, but rather it is a monument to all that is good and all that is right in higher education and in life."

Current President Thomas C. Meredith said the campus has been awaiting the official dedication of the five-year-old building with anticipation ever since regents approved the naming in January. He said it is fitting that a man known for his leadership in higher education be given a prominent honor on the campus.

Zacharias was president of Western from 1979 to 1985. During this time, he helped raise academic standards, developed the university's strategic plan and established the first comprehensive development program. He left to become Mississippi State's 15th president.

"When I look about this space, I'm reminded about the happiest and best people I've ever known, and I notice that they possess one characteristic. They know how to enjoy life," Zacharias said. "They watch for the chance to have fun, bring fun to others or create a place for others to discover the special joys of life.

"Western has long been known for the way it cares for its students and their development. It's a pleasure to see my family name join with that effort. You've given us a joy that we celebrate with you. It's a place for me where the experiences of a lifetime will mill and mingle. I could receive no richer honor."

In addition to the dedication, Zacharias was presented a plaque, framed photograph of the building, framed copy of the naming resolution, and a T-shirt bearing the name "Zach Shack," students' nickname for the three-story building.