05/20/2026
“The St. Charles Borromeo Seminary project was a highly complex and multifaceted undertaking that required strong collaboration, adaptability, and problem-solving across the entire team.
The project included construction of two new buildings on a 16-acre site at Gwynedd Mercy University, requiring extensive earthwork, storm basins, and coordination of new utilities. Rock excavation impacted building pads, storm systems, and sanitary lines. Frequent coordination with the university minimized disruption to occupied campus facilities.
The 53,000 sq. foot, structural steel Student Life Center includes dining, auditorium, library, and chapel spaces, incorporating marble statues and ecclesiastical articles from the original St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. The 30,500 sq. foot, wood-framed residence hall features a similar façade and additional chapel space. At around the ¾ mark of the project, contracted renovations to portions of the existing 4-story brick dorm, Alex Hall, were added, which required additional Supervision and subcontractors.
The overall project duration was 21 months from start date to substantial completion. The buildings each took around 15 months to complete with remainder of the time prior being site related. This aggressive schedule had to be met so students and staff could begin their Fall 2024 schedule at their new campus as the previous location was no longer an option.
Despite these challenges, the experience ultimately strengthened our team. With five superintendents overseeing four separate projects, supported by two project engineers, maintaining alignment was critical. Through regular team meetings, detailed schedule updates, and open lines of communication, we were able to stay coordinated and developed a unified approach to problem solving.
Throughout the process, I also took on expanded responsibilities due to delegated design requirements. This project pushed me to grow both technically and professionally while contributing meaningfully to the project’s overall success.”
-Bill Schick, Senior Project Manager
Thoughtfully designed by Voith & Mactavish Architects LLP and managed by Aegis Property Group
