Fox Cities News

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh (UWO) has announced the renaming of its Multicultural Education Center (MEC) to Dr. Boyland University Hall, honoring distinguished alumnus Dr. Dorian Boyland. The decision was endorsed by the Universities of Wisconsin Board of Regents in September and reflects Boyland's significant contributions as a student and alumnus.

Originally built in 1898, the building located at 751 Algoma Boulevard became the MEC in the early 1970s, serving as a support center for students of color at UWO. Dr. Boyland, who was involved with Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity during his time at UWO, described it as "a haven, a meeting place to help each other out." He emphasized its role in providing a supportive environment for Black students.

Dr. Boyland's ties to UWO are longstanding; he received an honorary degree from the university in May 2019 and is also a member of both the UWO Athletics Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Chancellor Andrew Leavitt remarked on Dr. Boyland’s enduring impact: “Dr. Boyland’s student story...is emblematic of the kind of community...we want to nurture.” Byron Adams, director of UWO Student Success and Belonging, has been instrumental in revitalizing what will be known as Dr. Boyland University Hall.

Boyland expressed anticipation for returning to UWO next spring for the dedication ceremony: “We formed a tremendous bond... It was a place to bring everybody together.”

In addition to his accomplishments at UWO, Boyland pursued an MLB career with teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates before transitioning into successful ventures within automotive sales and philanthropy.