Storms cause damage across the Evanston campus

Northwestern sustained damage across the Evanston campus as a result of Tuesday night’s thunderstorms. The University lost numerous large trees and branches across the campus, including several prominent trees in the City parkway.

High winds damaged trees and structures in several prominent locations on campus, including trees at 1800 Sheridan Road and a large stained-glass window at Alice Millar Chapel.

Several broken panels hung in pieces or had been blown down completely from the soaring windows above the main entrance to the chapel, which was closed by Northwestern Facilities as crews assessed the damage Wednesday morning.

“It’s heartbreaking,” said Mike Shine, a carpenter and foreman with Northwestern Facilities.

Alice Millar is home to Northwestern Religious and Spiritual Life and is a gathering place for students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members regardless of religion, tradition or spirituality.

“That’s part of its beauty and its purpose — a place for all people to gather, reflect, celebrate and mourn,” said the Rev. Kristen Glass Perez, University Chaplain and executive director for Religious and Spiritual Life. “The stained-glass windows help us reflect on ourselves and our beloved Northwestern University — when we are here and when we are out in the world.  

“I’m grateful today for the quick response from Northwestern Facilities management staff who took very immediate and quick steps to stabilize Alice Millar Chapel and look forward to working with our community in the coming days and weeks as we prepare for the start of a new academic year.”

The storms also resulted in localized power outages. The University’s Facilities department is still assessing the full list of locations and damage. There were no injuries reported.