Winger Hall Renovation
Restoring Winger. Honoring a Legacy.
For more than a century, Manchester University has been shaped by individuals who believed deeply in the power of education, creativity, and community. Few embodied that spirit more fully than Otho Winger.
A Commitment That Started on Foot
As a young student in 1898, Winger first came to North Manchester with limited means but an unwavering commitment to the future of Manchester College. When the institution faced financial uncertainty, he walked from house to house through deep winter snow, asking neighbors and supporters to invest in the college’s survival.
“I proceeded on foot from house to house and asked folks for money to help save Manchester College,” Winger later reflected. “Every bit added to the possibility of the success of the venture.”
What began as humble fundraising efforts became a lifelong dedication to Manchester.
Building a Lasting Legacy
After earning his master’s degree from Indiana University, Winger returned to Manchester to teach history, education, English, Latin, and philosophy. He later served as vice president and eventually president of the college, helping lead a period of growth that expanded campus facilities, strengthened academic programs, and created new opportunities for students.
Though Otho Winger passed away in 1946 before construction on Winger Hall began, the building stands today as a lasting tribute to his vision and commitment to Manchester’s future.
Why the Winger Hall Renovation Matters
A Home for Creativity and Expression
For generations, Winger Hall has been home to creativity and expression at Manchester University. Within its walls, students have discovered their voices through music, art, photography, design, and performance.
It has served as a place where talent is nurtured, confidence is built, and community is formed.
Today, that legacy continues through the Manchester Bold campaign.
Investing in the Future of Student Creativity
As part of this transformational initiative, Manchester University is investing in critical renovations to Winger Hall to ensure future generations of students have access to modern, accessible, and inspiring creative spaces.
Planned updates include:
Modern classroom and studio technology
Improved acoustics for music and performance spaces
ADA-compliant accessibility improvements
Updated heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems
Enhanced environments for photography, graphic design, and visual arts programs
These improvements will do more than modernize a building. They will create an environment where students of all abilities can learn, create, perform, and thrive.
Continuing Otho Winger’s Vision
Thank YOU for Being a Donor
Otho Winger believed deeply in investing in students and in the future of Manchester University. Today, you can help carry that vision forward.
Your support of Winger Hall renovations will preserve a historic campus landmark while empowering the next generation of artists, musicians, designers, and creators.
Together, we can ensure Winger’s legacy continues to inspire students for generations to come.
