Groundbreaking Set for McGehee Hall Expansion
Groundbreaking for an expansion to McGehee Hall on the York University campus is scheduled for Friday, May 1, 2026, at 1 p.m. Announced earlier this year when the university received a $2 million gift earmarked to create a home for the recently launched Smith and Mary Kite Center for Ministry, the 7,600 square foot addition is the first phase to expand and renew McGehee Hall.
Along with housing the Smith and Mary Kite Center for Ministry, the McGehee Hall expansion will provide new classrooms, offices and other meeting spaces. The façade of the new construction will align with the original 1911 structure. Construction is set to begin this spring.
The university has also begun fundraising to renovate McGehee Hall with work slated to begin when the expansion is completed. When complete, the extensive renovations will upgrade classrooms, the student center and also create a new home for student services.
“The expansion and renovation of McGehee Hall will mean stronger outreach and support for churches throughout the North Central United States,” said York University President Tim Westbrook. “York University’s commitment to building the Kingdom is a priority that seamlessly aligns with our mission of transforming lives through Christ-centered education and equipping students for lifelong service.”
The public is invited for the groundbreaking to be held east of McGehee Hall on the York University campus, south of the intersection of 10th Street and McKaig Avenue. If you are interested in giving or want to learn more about naming opportunities for the McGehee Hall project, please contact Jared Stark in the Advancement Office at 402-363-5635.
The Smith and Mary Kite Center for Ministry was founded in 2025 when York was selected as a recipient of a Lilly Endowment grant. The mission of the Kite Center for Ministry is to equip and empower men and women for ministry and leadership in local churches, making disciples through supporting and encouraging congregations. The Kite Center is currently led by co-directors, Drs. Anessa Westbrook and Scott Laird.
Kite Center for Ministry co-director and long-time minister for the Great Falls Church of Christ, Scott Laird said, “The Kite Center for Ministry is designed to bless small and rural churches throughout the Midwest, Northern Plains, and Rocky Mountain region. This expansion and renovation of McGehee Hall demonstrates the commitment York University and her supporters have to this important ministry. I imagine a time in the not too distant future where church members and leaders, men and women, partner deeply with the Kite Center for Ministry because this center has a permanent home at York University.”