About
The Howard Performing Arts Center, completed in the autumn of 2003, sits at the end of J.N. Andrews Boulevard, the main entrance to the Andrews University campus. The large glass-and-copper-clad front faces toward Pioneer Memorial Church.
In February of 2001, John and Dede Howard, then residents of nearby St. Joseph, Mich., shared a generous gift with the intention of seeing a performing arts center constructed on the campus of Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Mich. They envisioned a worldclass facility for fine arts presentations—a state-of-the-art resource devoted to performance, recording and broadcasting of classical music, and a cultural center to be shared and enjoyed by the community.
The Howards, who now reside in Holland, Mich., share a devout love of music, commitment to community and spirit of generosity.
The mission of the Howard Center
This remarkable gift, the largest single gift ever made to Andrews University, reflects a deep appreciation for the University's many contributions to the cultural life of Michiana. Those contributions include public performances by faculty and students from the highly regarded Department of Music, and daily broadcasts by WAUS 90.7FM, the on-campus classical music radio station. The radio station operates from the John and Dede Howard Studios, located in the Howard Center. The gift of John and Dede Howard also reflects a faith in the vision and generosity of others who care about the fine arts and appreciate the power that music has to enrich the quality of life for individuals and the community.