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MILLIGAN COLLEGE, TN (June 29, 2010) — Milligan College gained a beautiful artistic symbol of its Christian heritage today, June 29, with the installation of a Celtic cross sculpture standing almost 18 feet tall near Derthick Hall on the Mary Sword Campus Commons.
Measuring 17 feet 9 inches tall and 9 feet wide, the cross was constructed of plate steel and weighs more than 8,000 pounds. It was created by artist Stefan “Steebo” Bonitz, owner of Steebo Design in Asheville, N.C.
“The Celtic cross has long been a part of Milligan’s identity and tradition,” said Milligan President Don Jeanes, who along with wife Clarinda commissioned the piece on behalf of the college. “A 12-foot-tall Celtic cross atop the spire of Milligan’s Seeger Memorial Chapel marks the highest point on our campus. The cross is also prominently used in Milligan’s logo, emphasizing the institution’s Christian heritage and focus.”
Mary H. Phillips, of Butler, Pa., donated the funds for the piece shortly before her death in January of 2009 and requested the gift be used to purchase artwork for the Milligan campus. The Phillips family has a longstanding relationship with the college and has generously supported Milligan for many decades. Phillips is the aunt of first lady Clarinda Jeanes.