DWU - Campus Tour

Wagner Chapel
The Wagner Chapel is in the Rollins Campus Center. It accommodates up to 50 people in a setting that provides a constant spiritual presence on campus. The chapel is open and accessible 24 hours a day, inviting students, faculty, staff and visitors to spend quiet time in individual reflection and prayer. It provides a central campus location for smaller group worship, study groups and gatherings.

The Wagner Chapel is named for Drs. Robert '36 and Frances Blessing Wagner '38, alumni who have inspired others through their servant leadership and Christian commitment. Married in 1939, the Wagners have faithfully served churches in South Dakota and England throughout Robert's distinguished career as a United Methodist pastor.

Demonstrating extraordinary devotion to Wesleyan, Robert had twice stepped forward to provide leadership at critical moments in the college's history – first by leading the successful campaign to rebuild College Hall after the 1955 fire, and then by serving as interim president for three months in 1971. Frances had likewise served the university on the Board of Trustees and in other noteworthy ways; she remains an honorary trustee to this day.

The Wagner Chapel Stained Glass Windows

The Faith Within
“As we experience life’s sweeping vistas, varied textures, and ups and downs, our faith gives us the strength to enjoy, endure and excel. However, faith is not something readily visible in a person like hair color or the brightness of a smile. Faith should be, though, the center of our soul that manifests itself through our every thought, word and deed. The deeper within us, the stronger it should be.

“Within this design are three fishes, symbols of the Christian faith. As our faith is part of us, so these fishes are part of the flow of this design. As you use this chapel for worship, meditation and fellowship, I hope this window inspires you to contemplate your own faith and how it affects your life. Look within yourself to see the faith within.”

Ken Bird, designer
Dakota Stained Glass, 2006

In recognition of those generously contributing to the windows:

In memory of Ethan E. and S. Blanche Miller
by Ardith Miller ’50

June Wolf Briggs ’62 and Dinus Briggs

In memory of Robert Wagner ’36 and Kate Wagner Landin ’64
by the family and memorial gifts (three windows)

Bruce ’71 and Barb Wagner ’71 Cutler (four windows)