Marian High School Celebrates Groundbreaking for $7 Million Campus Transformation
BLOOMFIELD HILLS, MI – Marian High School marked a historic moment in the life of the school as it broke ground on a bold $7 million transformation on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, ushering in a new era of innovation and excellence. The first phase of the Marian for the Generations Capital Campaign will modernize science and visual arts facilities, reinforcing the school’s commitment to preparing students for the future.
Vice President of Advancement Holly Gorecki began the evening reflecting on the event’s significance, addressing a crowd of alumnae, faculty, benefactors, and members of the Board of Directors:
“This groundbreaking marks more than just the start of construction—it represents the beginning of a bold new chapter in our story, one built on tradition, vision, and the unwavering spirit of this incredible community.”
Following her warm introduction, Sr. Mary Katherine Hamilton, IHM led the community in a prayer that embodied Marian’s Catholic roots and IHM values.
Karen Dubay Holt ’91, Board of Directors President, shared the story behind the campaign’s vision. She highlighted the years of strategic planning, the unwavering support of the Marian community, and the importance of evolving Marian’s educational spaces to meet the needs of today’s students—especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. Reflecting on her personal connection to Marian as both an alumna and parent, she shared:
“When my daughter Lauren was a student here, she sat in the same science labs I did more than 30 years ago. It’s a powerful tradition—but it also showed me just how overdue these upgrades are. Marian has always prepared students to succeed—but now it’s time our learning spaces reflect the excellence we expect from our students.”
Holt emphasized that this campaign is not just about facilities—it’s about faith in the future of Marian students and gratitude for the many donors and community members who have made the moment possible.
Join in the Generations
Make a one-time gift, or learn more about the different avenues available to support Marian for the Generations.
Next, President Heather Greig Sofran ’96 expanded on the scope of the renovations and the impact they will have across campus. With heartfelt emotion, Sofran acknowledged the extraordinary generosity of benefactors whose major gifts have propelled the campaign forward.
Sofran also celebrated the many alumnae-led and Marian-connected businesses helping to build the future of the school—from Gleeson Construction and Michigan Air Products to Farnell Equipment Company and O|X Studio, the architectural firm leading the design. She underscored that this campaign is truly “by Marian, for Marian.” These partnerships, she noted, demonstrate the deep pride and investment Marian graduates carry with them long after graduation. She also acknowledged the tireless work of faculty and staff for turning this vision into reality. With $5.1 million raised toward the campaign’s $7 million goal, Sofran called on the community to continue supporting the transformation of Marian’s academic spaces:
“This isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about possibility. It’s about the next generation of scientists, artists, thinkers, and leaders.”
The ceremony culminated in a toast:
“To every donor to this campaign… To our beloved faculty and staff... To every alumna, student, and friend of Marian... To vision, faith, and the power of community... To the generations who have walked these halls—and the generations still to come. To Marian—for the generations.”
Returning to the podium, Gorecki offered her closing remarks before inviting guests to the 200s hallway to symbolically break ground on the exciting new chapter ahead.
“We’re not just expanding a building—we’re expanding possibility,” she said. “Let’s go make history!”
Transforming Learning Spaces
Now underway, Phase 1 of the project focuses on the renovation of Marian’s science and visual arts facilities, designed to enhance hands-on learning and creativity. This phase includes:
-
A full-scale renovation of five science classrooms featuring state-of-the-art laboratory equipment, advanced technology, collaborative learning spaces, and upgraded infrastructure, along with a newly modernized computer laboratory.
-
The centralization of Marian’s pottery, design, and arts classrooms, creating a dedicated hub for visual and digital arts.
-
Refreshed hallways and lighting with an updated aesthetic to create a more open, modern, and inviting space designed to inspire learning.
Phase 2 of the campaign will focus on installing new windows and air conditioning throughout the school, further enhancing the learning environment. This phase is expected to take place during the summer of 2026.
A Vision for the Future
The Marian for the Generations campaign is more than just a building project—it is a commitment to excellence, innovation, and the enduring values of a Marian education. By integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), these improvements will create a well-rounded academic experience that prepares young women for the evolving demands of the future. Additionally, growing the endowment will provide Marian with the financial stability to offer ongoing support for tuition assistance, faculty development, and program enhancements, ensuring that Marian remains accessible and affordable for all students.
“Breaking ground on this campaign signifies a new chapter for Marian,” said President Sofran. “We are deeply grateful to our donors, alumnae, and the entire Marian community for their unwavering support as we embark on this exciting journey. With these renovations and the growth of our endowment, we are ensuring that our students have access to cutting-edge resources and opportunities that will empower them to lead, create, and innovate.”
The campaign continues to welcome support from donors who wish to contribute to Marian’s legacy of excellence.
About Marian
Marian High School, located in Bloomfield Hills, MI, is a Catholic college preparatory school for young women, sponsored by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Committed to academic excellence within a Christian environment, Marian empowers students to become leaders who value human diversity and serve their communities with integrity. Through a rigorous curriculum and a strong foundation in gospel values, Marian prepares young women to excel in college and beyond.
Four Key Priorities
With your support, we will embark on this vital journey to upgrade and improve our facilities and solidify our financial future:
STEM Center
We envision a school advancing its leadership in STEM education at the college-preparatory level. We see expanded opportunities for students to challenge themselves intellectually, engage in hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technology, explore real-world problems, and develop the critical skills needed for future careers. We see teachers gaining more time, space, and resources to innovate in curriculum development, collaborate with industry experts, and bring the latest research and advancements s into the classroom, preparing students to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
Visual Arts Center
We envision a school that cultivates creativity as a cornerstone of a holistic education. We see a vibrant visual arts program where students have the space, resources, and inspiration to explore, express, and refine their artistic talents. We see modern art studios that empower students to experiment with new media, collaborate with peers, and push the boundaries of their creativity. We see teachers equipped with state-of-the-art tools and the flexibility to innovate, guiding students to develop critical thinking, perseverance, and confidence—skills that extend far beyond the world of fine arts.
Windows & HVAC
We envision a school with modernized academic spaces that provide the ideal learning environment for every student. We see new, energy-efficient windows and advanced HVAC systems in all academic areas, ensuring consistent comfort, improved air quality, and natural light throughout the day. We see students thriving in classrooms where optimal conditions foster focus and creativity, while teachers can fully engage with their students without distractions. We see these upgrades as a vital investment in the health, well-being, and productivity of our entire Marian community, setting the stage for future success.
Endowment Growth
We envision a school with a robust endowment that secures Marian's future for generations to come. We see increased resources to maintain the affordability and accessibility of our Catholic education, ensuring all bright young women, regardless of financial means, can attend. We see the ability to attract and retain exceptional faculty, support critical tuition assistance, and invest in top-notch co-curricular programming. We see endowment growth as a safeguard against economic uncertainties, allowing Marian to continue providing a transformative education rooted in faith, character, and academic excellence for every student.
An Invitation to Partner
Help us fortify our mission and empower generations of Marian students.
Thank you for considering a commitment that will make an enduring impact on Marian’s history as we work to meet our school’s most critical needs. By partnering with us, you ensure that the vision of Marian remains strong—raising up future generations of Mustangs equipped to navigate the world with courage, creativity, and faith.
Join in the Generations
Make a one-time gift, or learn more about the different avenues available to support Marian for the Generations.
.png)