Alumni have a stunning new home on campus

Thomas T. Tierney ’60 B.A. and his wife Elizabeth are cultural philanthropists investing art, history and beauty. When they were introduced to the Hecker House on Woodward Avenue in midtown Detroit, they agreed to invest in the preservation of this cultural gem.

It is now the new home of the university's Alumni Association. The home was rededicated the Tierney Alumni House in honor of their $2 million gift. $1 million will support an endowment to ensure the Tierney Alumni House is maintained for generations.

An additional $1 million will support future programming. “It is a worthy investment to preserve this home that is not only a work of art, but also a beloved piece of history in Detroit," said Tom Tierney.

The home was designed by architect Louis Kamper and built between 1889 and 1892. Kamper also designed Detroit landmarks such as the Book Cadillac Hotel, Book Tower, Broderick Tower and the Water Board Building.

The home has changed owners over the years, and Wayne State purchased it in 2011 with the

promise to retain it's historical features. Due to the Tierney's generosity, this promise will

remain unbroken. The city will forever enjoy the craftsmanship of Tierney Alumni House.

Photo by United Photo Works, Detroit, MI