Bicentennial Brick Garden celebrates those who have shaped, been shaped by MC

Mississippi Christian University leaders dedicate the Bicentennial Brick Garden during MC's Bicentennial Homecoming on Oct. 31.

As an alumna of Mississippi Christian University, Carol Bennett Peebles ’80 wanted the name of a former roommate at MC who died last year to remain a part of the University’s rich legacy.

Peebles and several of her Swannanoa friends purchased a brick bearing her late friend’s name and graduation year in MC’s new Bicentennial Brick Garden.

During MC’s Bicentennial Homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 31, Peebles attended the dedication of the garden, located near the Chapel bell tower on the east side of the main campus in Clinton.

“I wanted to help remember a great friend who contributed to rebuilding Swannanoa when its membership was dwindling and who dedicated herself to the field of education in Mississippi,” Peebles said. She also purchased a brick bearing her own name and graduation year.

“I thought the Homecoming brick dedication was so touching,” she said. “I was glad I could be included in the brick walkway. I think it adds so much to the MC campus.”

Conceptualized and implemented by the MC Foundation, the Bicentennial Brick Garden is designed to honor those who have shaped MC and been shaped by MC. Jake Donald, MC director of alumni and family engagement, said purchasing a legacy brick is a meaningful way to do that.

“MC is more than a place we attended; it’s a place that shaped who we are and created memories and friendships that last a lifetime,” Donald said. “Purchasing a legacy brick is a meaningful way to honor that connection, celebrate the people who made our MC experience special, and leave a lasting reminder of our place in the University’s story for generations to come.”

Members of the MC Family can purchase an engraved brick to remember a favorite faculty member, loved one, MC memory or their own graduation. Each personalized brick will become a permanent part of the garden for generations to come.

Jim Miller, director of development and major gifts for the MC Foundation, said the location was chosen intentionally.

“Not only is it centrally located and adjacent to the Quad, but it is nestled between a residence hall (Chrestman Hall) and an academic building (Lowrey Hall),” Miller said. “The existing walkways form a cross, reminding us all of MC's commitment to academic excellence and the cause of Christ.”

Donald said the garden stands as “a lasting tribute to the legacy of faith, scholarship and community” that defines MC.

“Every brick helps support and grow the meaningful work of the MC Alumni Association,” Donald said.

Each brick is engraved with a personalized message and the official interlocking MC logo, ensuring a unified and timeless design across the garden. Each four-inch-by-eight-inch brick costs $200, and duplicates may be ordered as keepsakes.

“I highly encourage our MC Family to participate in the brick legacy,” Peebles said. “It's such a wonderful way to remember fellow classmates as well as the days you walked on the campus of MC.”

Legacy bricks purchased by Feb. 17, 2027, are expected to be installed by MC’s May 2027 Commencement. For more information or to purchase a brick, visit mc.edu/brickgarden.