Fifty years ago: Lourdes Shrine/Gardella Honors House built and dedicated
University of Detroit Mercy students today know this building as the Gardella Honors House, but the original name of the structure was known as Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine. It was donated by Mr. and Mrs. George A. Gardella, Sr., president of Food Associates of Michigan Inc. Construction was supposed to start in January of 1963, but did not begin until March because of a delay in shipping the marble from Italy for the side walls of the structure. After mass in Gesu Church, parents, graduates and faculty, marched in procession to the new edifice for a dedication ceremony June 13, 1963. The graduates would receive their degrees later that day.
Fr. Celestin J. Steiner, S.J. (speaking), U-D chancellor, Mr. and Mrs. George A. Gardella (seated in front row at left)
