Goucher Named An Innovator of the Year

Froelicher Buildings Moved Leads to Award

Goucher was recognized by The Daily Record for its most recent innovation, moving two of its three buildings on campus to preserve and reuse student housing for future generations.

The Daily Record began the Innovator of the Year awards in 2002 as a way to recognize Marylanders and Maryland-based companies for their innovative spirit – for creating new products, new programs, new services or new processes that have helped their companies, industries or communities.

"Innovators are constantly creating, improving and creating again. They make a huge difference in people’s lives, in the economy and in the success of our region," said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, publisher of The Daily Record. "The Daily Record is pleased to recognize this year's Innovators of the Year and their passion, creativity and drive that result in new products and processes that have a positive impact on Maryland and beyond."

Goucher's innovative initiative highlights the college’s commitment to environmental sustainability, while also historically preserving the Froelicher Hall buildings, which were built in the 1950s as part of the college’s move to the Towson campus.

“Innovation underscores our approach to everything here at Goucher and moving Froelicher is no exception,” said President José Antonio Bowen. “It would have been hugely wasteful from an environmental, preservation, and financial prospective to demolish these buildings. This unique approach is a tremendous example of how we can address all three of those important issues while maintaining a cohesive living-learning environment for our students.”  

By conserving the existing infrastructure, the move provided considerable cost savings to the college. Students will move into the buildings in the fall.

The 2017 Innovator of the Year awards will be presented Oct. 18 at a reception/dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. at the American Visionary Art Museum.