For those who have visited Siena, you will immediately notice the bell tower and large chapel at our entrance. These sacred spaces define our campus and symbolize our commitment to living the gospel.
Our Chapel
Siena Chapel became a reality for the Racine Dominicans on April 30, 1966. The altar was dedicated by Bishop Roman Atkielski on Friday April 29, 1966 and the first Mass was celebrated on April 30, 1966. Archbishop William E. Cousins presided at the dedication of the chapel and Siena Center on April 30, 1967.
The Chapel was dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena. The structure, designed by Barry & Kay Architects of Chicago is 43 feet high with a 102 foot bell tower,
Set against the face of the tower, which also houses electronic bells, is a 18 foot bronze image of St. Catherine of Siena sculptured by Racine Dominican Sister Monica Gabriel.
Stained Glass Windows
There are 90 windows set around the top of the chapel, nine large windows at the west end, and four at the entrance of the chapel.
These all complement a walnut-trimmed skylight which canopies the altar area. New York artist Jean Jacques Duval, originally from France, created the windows. Called Slab Glass, the windows were made using a chipped glass technique that was new at the time.
Organ
The organ three manual organ with 1,641 pipes purchased from Wick’s Organ Company in Highland, Illinois. The pipes range from a foot to sixteen feet in length. We continue to use the organ in our liturgies and services.