architectural firm of Loebl Schlossman & Hackl, the 57,000-square-foot (5,300 m2) facility was planned and sited with the needs of both the college and the Naperville community in mind. Plans evolved over a 15-year period, driven by explosive growth in the college's music, theatre and art programs, as well as the parallel transformation of the city's downtown, which has brought more than 50 restaurants, numerous national stores and the first four- and five-story buildings within a few blocks of the North Central campus.
The concert hall is named in honor of Myron Wentz, Class of 1963. Nearly $10 million in gifts from Wentz — a scientist, entrepreneur, and music lover — over the past two years have brought the facility to center stage. Plans for a new fine arts center were put on hold a decade ago when a devastating flood in Naperville forced the college to turn its attention to its damaged athletic complex instead.
In addition to Wentz Concert Hall, the Fine Arts Center also features the Madden Theatre, which …
