After more than a year of anticipation, construction at 3400 Walnut Street has reached completion. It will now house the Art History Department, which is finally leaving the basement of Meyerson Hall and the University Science Center on 34th and Market streets. Administration, faculty, students and alumni gathered Saturday morning to officially "cut the ribbon" on the Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe History of Art Building. "The Jaffe History of Art building now stands as a gateway not only to Penn's campus but to Penn in the 21st century," said Michael Meister, deputy chairperson of the Art History Department. "Penn's History of Art Department, like the building it will now occupy, historically preserves and offers structure?to new ideas and new areas of intellectual inquiry." The Jaffes, through their $2 million donation in March 1991, have made a tremendous mark on both the department and the University as a whole, according to University President Judith Rodin. "I admire innovators," she said. "They really have a remarkable dream. For us, this building is huge beyond its wonderful glass and brick." Elliot Jaffe, a graduate of the Wharton School and founder of the DressBarn retail clothing chain, said he is pleased with the results of his donation. "This is truly a first class facility for a first class department," he said. "I truly hope this new building will bring more undergraduates to?the History of Art Department." Jaffe's remarks were followed by a champagne and hors d'oeuvres, and hosted tours of the new building. The facility, which houses two classrooms, one seminar room and many department offices, is already in use by the department. Rosemary Stevens, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, said SAS is profoundly thankful for the Jaffes' generosity. "History does teach us that buildings do reflect the work that is done within them and around them," she said. "The School of Arts and Sciences is a family of connected generations. We draw on support, advice and the experience of our alumni generations." Stevens said this building is a part of the "Arts and Sciences Precinct," which also includes Williams Hall, Bennett Hall, College Hall and Logan Hall. The new location also gives the department an increased prominence on campus, according to Art History Chairperson Renata Holod. "We are now on the map, out of the basement, and at the gateway of the campus," she said.
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