5-01-2026 9:24pm

Bishop Fenwick Unveils Plans for Innovative Student Union

Beth Callahan Editor

Fenwick Spirit of 76 Rendering

Story and photo courtesy of Bishop Fenwick High School

FRANKLIN, OH -- Bishop Fenwick High School students kicked off a major renovation, using sledgehammers to begin transforming its 3,100-square-foot media center into a Student Union, a multipurpose hub designed to foster community and support the school’s vision for learning.

Five students were chosed to participate in the ceremonial demolition that occurred at 12:30 p.m. Friday, May 1, inside the current media center, located off the school’s main lobby.

The current media center, which was built in the early 2000s, has served as a library and computer lab for more than two decades. But with most learning resources now accessible through students’ 1:1 devices, school leaders say the space is ready for a new purpose.

“The way we educate has changed in the digital age,” said Steve Strathmann, president. “We’ve watched students’ needs shift since the pandemic, and the Student Union reflects that evolution. This space will give students a place to gather, collaborate and feel supported.”

The renovated Student Union will feature the “Falcon Flight Lounge” and “Spirit of 76 Cafe”, serving “Falcon Fuel” coffee beverages and treats before school each weekday. It will also include refreshed seating areas, new technology, an expanded conference room, and a dedicated IT help desk. A glass garage door will divide the coffee lounge from the learning area when needed.

The project, estimated at $550,000, is fully funded through the tremendous generosity of private donors. Schumacher Dugan has been selected as the project’s contractor, with completion expected by Aug. 1.

“This project is a perfect blend of Fenwick’s rich history and its bright future,” Strathmann said. “Our alumni have always invested in the next generation, and thanks to their generosity, our students will soon benefit from a space that reflects where education is headed. It’s an exciting step as we prepare for the many more initiatives in the 2026–27 school year.”

ABOUT BISHOP FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL:

Bishop Fenwick is a Catholic high school located in Franklin, Ohio that serves more than 400 students in Grades 9-12. Located on 66 acres just off Interstate 75, the school’s enrollment draws from more than 46 communities in Southwest Ohio. To learn more about Bishop Fenwick, please contact us at 513-423-0723 or visit www.fenwickfalcons.org.