Hyperion Director Jill Jinks was recently part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of Hulley Tower, a central facet of Stetson University’s campus.
The historic bell tower – which is on the National Register of Historic Places – was built in 1934, but deconstructed to its base (only) after severe hurricane damage in 2004. Given that the tower symbolizes the shared values, history and future of the Deland, Florida institution, alums have been anxious to return the tower to its former glory.
Jinks (Stetson, ’79) helped lead that charge – known as Soul of Stetson – given that she was part of a fateful student trip in January 1979 when three Stetson classmates were killed in an avalanche on Mount Seegrube Mountain near Innsbruck, Austria.
Read more about the tragedy, but also about the bonds it continues to inspire as Jinks and other leaders – both those who were on the mountain that day and those who support them – continue their work to Stand Up Hulley (watch). For one, the many thoughtful ways the tower is being reimagined as a memorial and gathering place are impressive and moving.
By later this year Jinks expects the 116-foot exact replica of the 1934 Hulley Tower to be completed. The inspiration for it and those inspired by it will go on long after.
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