St. John’s Prep is proud to announce a significant milestone in the future of campus life.
At its most recent meeting, the Board of Trustees unanimously approved moving forward with the transformation of Memorial Dining Hall into the new Student Commons, with construction set to begin in June 2026.
Proposed rendering of the Memorial Student Commons building
For generations of Eagles, Memorial Dining Hall has served as far more than a place to eat. It has been a central gathering place on campus and a backdrop for friendships, conversations, traditions, mentorship, and daily community life. This transformation is designed to honor that legacy while creating a modern, student-centered space that better supports the needs of today’s students and the future of St. John’s Prep.
The Student Commons is a cornerstone of Vision 2032, the school’s strategic plan centered on strengthening the student experience and investing in the future of the Prep community. Under Pillar I: Capital Improvements, the school is committed to modernizing campus facilities in ways that support connection, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging.
Originally built in 1926 to serve a much smaller student body, Memorial Dining Hall now operates beyond capacity, serving more than 1,100 students each day. The renovation will reimagine the space to reflect how boys learn, gather, and build community today while creating a more efficient and welcoming daily experience for students, faculty, and staff.
Plans for the new Student Commons include:
- Expanded and modernized kitchen and servery facilities
- Relocation of Student Life offices to the center of daily activity
- Flexible spaces for programming, mentoring, and informal connection
- A dedicated dining area for faculty and staff
Construction is expected to be completed in time for the start of the 2027–2028 school year. During the 2026–2027 academic year, the school will implement a temporary dining solution for the high school, with additional details to be shared in the months ahead.
Proposed rendering of a Memorial Student Commons dining area
St. John’s Prep is partnering with Flansburgh Architects and PROCON on the project, which represents a significant investment in the future of the campus with a total projected cost of approximately $27.5 million. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of donors, the school is nearing its philanthropic goal and looks forward to continuing fundraising efforts to fully realize the vision for the Memorial Student Commons.
Rooted in the school’s enduring mission and commitment to relationship-centered education, the Student Commons will serve as a central part of daily campus life for generations to come, reflecting the energy, connection, and spirit that define St. John’s Prep.