A Milestone Gift with Historic Significance | A Message from President Evans

January 23, 2026

UIW Founders Hall Cheever Events Center

Dear UIW community, 

We have started the new year strong and with much to look forward to in 2026. One of the things I am anticipating most at UIW is the fall 2026 opening of Founders Hall. In a few short months, our newest building will come alive with the energy of our university community. Soon, Cardinal students and faculty will be working and learning in the gathering spaces designed to drive engagement and inspire collaboration. Today, I am thrilled to announce a major gift from our dear friend Mrs. Jane Cheever Powell toward two such dynamic spaces where our community will grow together.

Mrs. Powell’s gift establishes the Col. Cheever Events Center and the Cheever Family Auditorium that honor the legacy of Col. Charles E. Cheever, Sr., who founded Broadway Bank and was president of USAA, and of the Cheever family, which has shaped San Antonio in so many ways.

The photo above offers a look at the Col. Cheever Events Center, where we will host exciting speakers and invite discussion. Located in the heart of the first floor, the space retains some design elements from the 1960s when Founders Hall served as headquarters for USAA. Col. Cheever, Sr. was instrumental in the building’s development and was present at its 1954 groundbreaking. We are proud to honor him and the legacy of the Cheever family as the building enters a new chapter in its long history, now as Founders Hall. Mrs. Jane Cheever Powell and Col. Cheever, Sr.At left, you can see a photo of Mrs. Powell and Col. Cheever from this era.

I am grateful to Mrs. Powell for her generosity and continued belief in the Mission-integrated work that we do. Hers marks the fifth leadership gift toward infrastructure and academic program development within Founders Hall. 

Founders Hall represents the largest renovation project in UIW history. I am pleased to report that this phase in our renovation draws nearer to completion every day and that you should expect to hear much more about our progress throughout the year. Through the generosity of friends like Mrs. Powell and the collaborative efforts of our community, I have no doubt that Founders Hall will be a hub of global learning, faith and innovation for generations of students.

Praised be the Incarnate Word!

Sincerely,

Thomas M. Evans, PhD
President