The grand opening of Howard Payne University’s renovated Douglas MacArthur Academy of Freedom took place Tuesday afternoon with a tour, comments from state and local officials, and a ribbon cutting ceremony.

The Academy of Freedom was recently the focus of a major renovation project by Waldrop Construction to update the historic facility for revitalized use by HPU students, personnel and visitors. Home of the Guy D. Newman Honors Academy, the university’s multidisciplinary honors program, the Academy of Freedom features modular classrooms, updated technology and much-needed reception and office space. Honoring the ideals that serve as the foundation for the Honors Academy, the central gallery houses HPU’s historic statue of General MacArthur and a special collection of artifacts related to his distinguished military career.

Those who spoke at Tuesday’s event included HPU Board of Trustees Chairman Ronnie Andrews, Brownwood Mayor Stephen Haynes, State Rep. David Spiller, State Sen. Phil King, Hilary Stegemoller on behalf of U.S. Rep. August Pfluger, and HPU President Dr. Cory Hines, while Dr. Dale Meinecke, Vice President for Advancement, introduced the speakers.