This unique structure was created as a memorial to Jane Rush, wife of former Minnesota State University, Mankato President Dr. Richard Rush. Jane passed away of cancer during Dr. Rush’s presidency at the University. She was a strong, well-known community advocate of the arts, helped advance women’s leadership and was committed to the students of MSU. Shortly following her untimely death, Paulsen Architects was approached to work closely with Dr. Rush in designing a memorial on campus that would serve as a tribute to a woman who contributed so much to Minnesota State University, Mankato. The goal was to design and structure a space that would provide a gathering area for students and visitors of the performing arts centers on campus. An exterior arbor and courtyard was created featuring a concrete and steel decorative structure with benches and beautiful plantings and trees that identifies this place as a gathering area for relaxation and reflection.
