Taylor University Seeking Public Input on Former Campus

Press Release

Fort Wayne, Ind. – Ambassador Family Enterprises LLC and Taylor University are hosting a neighborhood forum to gather ideas for Project Rudisill – an initiative to determine the “highest and best” use of the buildings and grounds that comprise the former Taylor University Fort Wayne (TUFW) campus located on Rudisill Boulevard in Fort Wayne.

The neighborhood forum is June 29, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., in the dining commons at the Eicher Student Center on the former TUFW campus. According to Ambassador executive and Project Rudisill coordinator Garrett Cooper, the goals of the forum include: reporting on the process and criteria being used to consider alternatives for the campus, engaging citizens from the neighborhood associations surrounding the campus as well as the larger Fort Wayne community, and sharing updates from the City of Fort Wayne about the development of Rudisill Boulevard.

“Taylor University’s desire in hosting this neighborhood forum is to seek ideas from the surrounding neighbors that could help Taylor arrive at a solution that results in highest and best use of the Fort Wayne property,” said Cooper.

Taylor contracted with Ambassador in March to develop criteria to help the University determine the next steps for the former campus. Ambassador is also representing Taylor to organizations exploring the buildings and grounds.

"We are fortunate to be invited to collaborate with Taylor and Ambassador Family Enterprises,” said Adrienne Maurer, president of the Southwest Area Partnership. “It is encouraging that the neighborhoods are considered to be key stakeholders and that our input is welcome. The Taylor campus is an anchor for the neighborhood; the future of this area is greatly impacted by what happens to this campus."

“Taylor University believes the highest and best use of the property includes honoring the historical significance of the campus, serves the Fort Wayne community, and promises a timely implementation,” said Taylor president Dr. Eugene B. Habecker. “We are grateful for the assistance, expertise, and leadership shown by Ambassador, Garrett Cooper, and team.”

Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry said he appreciates Taylor and Ambassador Family Enterprises’ outreach to the neighbors and associations affected by the transition. "Taylor University Fort Wayne has been an institutional anchor for the city's south side,” he said. “As University leaders take the next steps for the future of this site, I am gratified to see them connecting with important stakeholders throughout the process. It can only be enhanced when more people are involved and more voices are heard."

To submit ideas, the public is encouraged to e-mail Project Rudisill at rudisill@afefamily.com or call 260-487-4052. Ambassador Family Enterprises officials expect to complete their Project Rudisill Phase II collaboration with Taylor University’s leadership and announce decisions later this year.

Source: Ambassador Family Enterprises