Magical Thinking and the Science Center

A lot of words are used here to describe what will happen as the science center's steelwork is completed: "tradition," "custom," "ceremony," etc. But it seems to me that the literal foundations of our new cutting-edge scientific facility will be marked with superstition and magical thinking. I think it's awesome.

"As the new Science Center continues to take shape, the College will hold a steel topping off ceremony for the building on Tuesday, April 8 starting at 10 a.m.

An industry tradition, a topping off ceremony marks a project turning point with a shift in focus from exterior to interior work.

From 10 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. on April 8, all members of the Stonehill community are invited come to the site and to sign the steel beam.

At 11:45 a.m., once the signings are complete, the ironworkers will have the honor of hoisting the steel beam in place.

As is the custom, an evergreen tree will be placed on the beam to symbolize that the building project is proceeding well, and as a token of “good luck” for the Science Center’s future occupants.

To the left of the tree, an American flag will fly. While to the right of the tree, a Stonehill banner will fly. As is their tradition, the ironworkers will hoist a P.O.W. flag as well.

President Mark T. Cregan, C.S.C. will preside and the beam will be blessed. "