Design Unveiling Press Release
Building for the Future: DeSales Innovation Center Moves Forward
$5 million raised to create a future-ready learning environment focused on creativity, collaboration, and student growth
LOUISVILLE, KY – August 5, 2025 — St. Francis DeSales High School proudly announces a major achievement in its Call to the Post Capital Campaign: $5 million has been raised toward the construction of the Hyland Family Innovation Center — the most significant campus enhancement since the 2016 opening of Paul B. Cox Stadium.
Launched in October 2022, the Call to the Post Capital Campaign set an ambitious plan for the future of DeSales with two key objectives: $5 million to build the Hyland Family Innovation Center and $5 million to grow the school’s endowment. To date, DeSales has raised over $9 million between the two.
“The planned Innovation Center is a ‘game-changer’ for DeSales. I think you will agree when you see the drawings. It says to our city that DeSales is here to stay and will continue to stay on the leading edge of Catholic education in the Louisville area”, shared Tim Hyland, class of 1966.
Designed by Studio Kremer Architects, the 10,000-square-foot Hyland Family Innovation Center will feature adaptable, energy-efficient spaces built to support group work, project-based learning, and interdisciplinary instruction. Key features include the following:
- Two cross-curricular classrooms
- Expanded Gaming Innovations Lab
- Outdoor learning and commons area
- Flexible event space
- Geo-thermal HVAC system
“We knew going into this campaign that the goal — $10 million between the two objectives — would be a huge stretch for the DeSales community,” said Dr. Rick Blackwell, president of DeSales. “We are proud to say we have achieved the $5 million goal for the Innovation Center, but we haven’t crossed the finish line yet. While we celebrate this milestone, we continue fundraising to ensure the Innovation Center is completed without compromise, despite rising construction costs across the region.”
The final design was unveiled at a donor reception on July 31, attended by more than 80 supporters. The groundbreaking is planned for late 2025.
After seeing the new designs, Cameron Shipaila ‘26 and his brother Jacob ‘28 were most excited to no longer have all-school mass in the gym. They felt the change - from bleachers to chairs - would make all-school masses feel more sacred.
Phase 1 of the Call to the Post campaign is already in motion with a comprehensive remodel of the school gym. The refresh, managed by WPC Company, includes the removal of ceiling tiles and redesign of ductwork to create an open look, new LED lighting, remote-operated basketball goals, installation of volleyball sleeves, and floor restriping to accommodate volleyball play.
Volleyball player Calvin Brey ‘28 welcomed the news about the gym updates, saying, “I am excited to practice and have home games at DeSales.” Currently the team practices at St. Thomas More or Presentation Academy, playing home games at Presentation Academy.
St. Francis DeSales High School is a Catholic college-preparatory institution committed to educating young men in spirit, mind, and body. Through academic excellence, faith formation, and service, DeSales empowers students to lead lives of purpose and impact.
For more information or to contribute to the campaign, visit www.desaleshs.com/ctp.
Media Contact:
Jaclyn Grieshaber, Director of Advancement
[email protected]
502-883-2438