DePaul University is set to breathe new life into a familiar Lincoln Park landmark, transforming the former Whole Foods building into a student welcome center. This move, which has been in the works for years, aims to create a welcoming gateway for prospective students, families, and the broader campus community. The project, currently in the permitting and bidding phase, is expected to begin construction this summer and open its doors in late summer 2027.
The building, located at 959 W. Fullerton Ave., has a rich history. It once housed a bustling Whole Foods Market, a popular destination for DePaul students and Lincoln Park residents. However, the store's closure in 2022 left a void, with neighbors and students expressing frustration and even signing petitions to urge the grocery store's return. The university's decision to repurpose the space is a strategic move, recognizing the need for a dedicated welcome center at one of its most visible locations.
Sasha Ivanic, DePaul's assistant vice president of enrollment management, envisions the center as a "front door" to the campus and the neighborhood. The first floor will feature interactive displays and presentation areas, showcasing the university's offerings, including faculty research and student achievements. This space will serve as an introduction to DePaul, engaging and informing visitors.
The second floor will be a hub of activity, offering lounges, meeting rooms, and flexible event spaces. These areas will be available for students, faculty, and staff to gather, collaborate, and relax after admissions programs end for the day. Ivanic emphasizes that the center will complement existing campus gathering spaces, providing a more intimate and versatile environment.
The project is funded through the state's Independent Colleges Capital Investment Grant Program, and the architectural firm Moody Nolan, the country's largest African American-owned firm, has been entrusted with the design. This welcome center is a testament to DePaul's commitment to enhancing its Lincoln Park campus and fostering a sense of community.
As the project progresses, DePaul officials are also exploring ways to engage the neighborhood with the space, although specific programs are yet to be finalized. The transformation of the former Whole Foods building into a student welcome center is a significant development, marking a new chapter in DePaul's history and its relationship with the Lincoln Park community.
