The newly renovated Glenna Bowman MacKenzie Theatre is officially open!
Located on the ground floor of Swem Library, the theatre had remained largely untouched since its construction in the 1960s. The space was rarely used and in need of upgrades when alum Earle MacKenzie gifted a generous donation to have the theatre renovated in memory of his wife, Glenna.
The pair fell in love as students at William & Mary. They studied together almost every day on the 2nd floor of Swem Library. When she passed, he wanted to do something special in her memory.
Earle did just that. Yesterday, we celebrated the opening of the theatre with Earle, his family, and friends.
Along with him, Earle brought a scrapbook that Glenna made during their college years. On a page dedicated to Swem Library she wrote, “Maybe one day they’ll erect a monument to us.”
We’re so excited to host more events in the theatre for years to come and provide a space for campus where cherished memories will be made to last a lifetime.
Learn more about the MacKenzies' love story on our news page.