Fenwick’s recent acquisition of the Priory in 2022 has started discussions throughout the community and raised questions about the value of the purchase. With the allure of potential athletic fields on one side and the stark reality of a deteriorated building on the other, stakeholders are left pondering: Was this purchase truly worth it? As the dust settles, the focus is turned to the future of the priory. Can Fenwick’s investment breathe new life into its aging structure, or are we facing an uphill battle against neglect and decay?

The building itself is frequently used for many things. We have eight of the ten members of the Institutional Advancement team currently working at the Priory. This team oversees the interaction with the extended community, such as alumni, parents, and friends of the Institution. They help to support Fenwick in its mission by communicating and building relationships with its constituents.

Not only are Fenwick staff located at this location, but we use it for Campus Ministry Retreats, cheer practice, Mother’s and Father’s Club Events, and of course outdoor sports. Masses are also able to be held at these retreats and club events. The large building and amount of land allows for a variety of activities to be held at the campus. The building may not currently be in the best shape, but there are some planned improvements in the works for the near future.

There was also a lot at stake if Fenwick didn’t purchase the priory. Gifts Officer, Mrs. Lowery says that what was really at stake was the future of Fenwick. Since our school is a landlocked building, we had no choice but to lease the athletic fields on the priory campus for years on end. Rising costs of athletics facilities would have made it challenging to keep the tuition down which could greatly impact enrollment. The purchase of the campus holds so much potential for Fenwick’s future and Mrs. Lowery states, “Fenwick secured its place as one of Chicago’s boldest schools,” through this purchase. OPRF had the chance to purchase the campus too. If they did, the beautiful campus would have been torn down and reimagined as a swimming pool.

Fenwick clinching the purchase of the priory campus was overall a huge success for the coming generations and holds hope in the potential of what it can become.