The chapel that built our community needs us now.
Since 1991, Samuelson Chapel has been the heart of campus—a central gathering place rooted in Lutheran tradition and open to all.
In addition to serving as a sacred space for the Cal Lutheran community, the chapel is a central academic, artistic, and civic venue—home to Convocation, Founders Day, lectures, performing arts, student recitals, and university and community events and performances.
Each week, the chapel hosts approximately 12 events and welcomes more than 100,000+ participants annually.
After more than three decades of faithful use, this sacred and artistic space now requires renewal to continue serving students and the broader community with excellence and care.
With your partnership, this investment will restore a sacred space rooted in faith and open to all.
Goal: $3,000,000
PHASE 1: Roof Replacement
Professional assessments have confirmed that the roof requires full replacement based both on on-going wear and tear and original design deficiencies.
The existing design must be corrected for drainage and slope deficiencies, and the copper material replaced to maintain both functionality and architectural integrity. Without this work, the Chapel risks escalating water damage that could compromise both the Chapel structure and interior finishes.
Cal Lutheran plans to undertake a $1.6 million roof replacement project at Samuelson Chapel. The project scope includes:
- Removal of Existing Roof Materials: Safe demolition and removal of all deteriorated roofing.
- Redesign of Roof Slopes and Drainage: Correction of structural deficiencies to prevent recurring leaks.
- Installation of New Roofing System: Replacement with a high-quality copper roof, maintaining the building’s distinctive design and ensuring a service life of 50+ years.
- Installation of Roof Drains and Flashing: Upgrades and additions to roof drains and integration of new flashing to further prevent water intrusion.
- Repairing Interior Finishes: Replacement of flooring and drywall damaged by water penetration.
- Architectural and Engineering Oversight: The project will be performed with full adherence to professional design, permitting requirements, and compliance with local building codes.
Phase 2: Restoration & Upgrades
This work will preserve Samuelson Chapel as a central campus landmark while ensuring it continues to serve as a safe and inspiring venue for worship, events, and community gatherings.
- $30,000 – Replace all ceiling tiles in offices and lounges
- $100,000 – Repair structural elements around existing leaks
- $150,000 – Repair drywall damage and repaint full interior
- $150,000 – Replace and upgrade all flooring
- $150,000 – Restore area landscaping and sidewalks
- $220,000 – Allowance for final design, permits, and contingency
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$1 million – Maintenance endowment fund for future needs
The Impact of Your Support
We have a critical opportunity to protect and preserve Samuelson Chapel by investing in a comprehensive roof replacement. With a $3 million investment, Cal Lutheran will secure the future of this iconic building, ensuring that it continues to serve as a symbol of faith, community, and university life.
- Preservation of a Landmark: Protecting the Chapel ensures the continued use of the university’s most iconic building.
- Student Experience: Safeguards a central gathering place for spiritual growth, reflection, and campus events.
- Community Engagement: Maintains the Chapel as a regional venue for weddings, concerts, and interfaith activities.
- Institutional Pride: Demonstrates our commitment to stewardship of our facilities and heritage.
Our students are ready. Our community is rising. Our future is calling.