A much needed change to the exterior of The Arnold Bernard Center (ABC), built in the early 1970s, is currently being executed. This is a great deal in part to the kind and generous donation of Mrs. Dorothy Larson. ABC is a very big part of the campus, and Mrs. Larson apparently felt displeased with its outward appearance.
As mentioned by Mr. John Daley, the Director of Public Relations, Mrs. Dorothy Larson, a member of the Board of Trustees, has been involved with the University for quite some time. Her father, an industrialist in Bridgeport was also a member of the Board of Trustees. With this lineage, it seems that caring deeply for the University is in her blood.
Mrs. Larson observed that many stones were breaking and twisted, and may have twisted her ankle as a result. Her keen eye also noticed the rusting, discolored, and paint-chipped condition of “the bubble.” Knowing that the building is used for many receptions, Mrs. Larson did not like this outward appearance to leave lasting impressions on visitors. She wanted the Center to be safe and more attractive. She also wanted the University to put on its best face, and therefore contributed to fix the exterior of the building.
After speaking with the President and an architect, a plan for ABC’s outward renovation was constructed. As construction of the area began, the breaking and twisting stones were removed. These stones were from California and used when the building was built in the 1970s. They cannot be replaced. The ones that could be salvaged were saved.
Mrs. Larson’s donation would beautify the campus and serve as an attractant to outside viewers including potential students. It is quite possible that this project would be a catalyst as UB rises and soars in the years to come.
University of Bridgeport
Saturday, July 12, 2025