The Vincentians (members of the Congregation of the Mission) always expressed a desire to look for ways to grow the University.  To have the kind of land and facilities that can guarantee success to any student’s drive to excellence.  Each president and every Vincentian faculty member since 1898 all shared that dream.  

     Two such Vincentians were the eighth and ninth presidents of DePaul, Rev. John R. Cortelyou, cm (seated) and Rev. John T. Richardson, cm (standing).  Together, they both were responsible for much of the academic change that was needed since the late 60’s.  Especially the programs that reflected the needs of ethnic minorities, notably African Americans.  

     The two were also responsible for the acquisition of land and buildings that really expanded the footing of the Lincoln Park campus.  This is especially true when considering the annexing of McCormick Seminary (where the Holtschneider Performance Center stands now), and areas to the west. Schmidt Academic Center, the McGowen Science buildings, and the residence halls on Racine.  

     Not to mention the addition of a bigger DePaul presence in the Loop area downtown.  Known as the ‘DePaul Center’, the old Goldblatt’s department store on State was renovated in 1991 and opened in ’93.  This building easily doubled space in the Loop for Law, Commerce, and a number of University offices.  Thanks to Frs. Cortelyou and Richardson.