Repository: UIHistories Project: Dedication - Law [PAGE 5]

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This new space ties together all the parts of the College of Law, acting like a hub to the entire building and allowing the opportunity for casual interactions, study and socializing space for students, and receptions and functions for the College as a whole. In a speech titled "Vision for the Future," Dean Mengler noted that "the paradigm for this new College of Law will be a reaching out, and its symbol will be the glorious expanse of windows in the Pedersen Pavilion, allowing the administration, faculty, and students to look out and step forth in significant ways." The Pedersen Pavilion was created by enclosing the previous exterior courtyard with a stepped, three-story structure of glass and aluminum. An outdoor plaza at the main Peabody Street entrance signals the approach to the pavilion, with the main interior staircase, the admissions office, the administrative offices, and the Hong Career Services Center located nearby for convenient access. Entry from Pennsylvania Avenue also leads directly into the pavilion, and on into the library and classroom areas.

PEER AND SARAH PEDERSEN PAVILION

Born in Vraa, Denmark, Mr. Pedersen emigrated to the United States at the age of one. He enrolled in the College of Law after service in World War II and obtained his degree in 1948; and in 1949 he and Sarah were married. In 1963 classmate Richard Houpt joined the practice Mr, Pedersen began in 1957 and their firm has since been known as Pedersen & Houpt, It now has more than 40 lawyers in a wide range of practice areas, serving clients nationally and internationally. Although declining the formal title of national chair, Mr. Pedersen was vital to the building campaign's success. Following on Mr. Jenners earfy leadership, he stepped forward with a significant personal commitment and was instrumental in acquiring several corporate gifts and the support of numerous key alumni. Mr. Pedersens involvement with the College has included service as the 1993 president of the Board of Visitors, which advises the College administration. He received the University of Illinois Alumni Association Loyalty Award in 1992 and was selected as the Colleges Alumnus of the Month in 1985.