Valparaiso University Breaks Ground on Rifai Institute
Valparaiso University broke ground for the Rifai Institute on Friday, Aug. 23, 2024. The ceremony featured comments from Dr. Hytham Rifai as well as a Muslim prayer led by his daughter, Jenna Rifai ’21. Other speakers at the event included Valparaiso University President José D. Padilla, U.S. Congressman Frank Mrvan, and Valparaiso Mayor Jon Costas.
“We are all different in our origin, beliefs, and cultures, but we are also all human, and should engage in conversations that help us accept each other,” said Dr. Rifai.
The purpose of the Rifai Institute is to serve as a center for interfaith and intercultural dialogue dedicated to promoting love, acceptance, and cultural awareness. This center will also prepare students for global careers by broadening their cultural perspectives. These features will enhance Valparaiso University’s goal of fostering servant-leaders in the community and in their careers by giving students an outlet to learn from a diverse set of perspectives.
“Our nation was founded on freedom, and freedom of religion — a freedom that recognizes our diversity,” Congressman Mrvan said. “That diversity is our strength in the northwest Indiana region.”
Plans for the center began during the tenure of former University President Mark Heckler, who played a crucial role in the initial planning stages, including the selection of land parcels and navigating the board approval process. Unfortunately, the process had to be halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, however, President Padilla has given the project his full support.
“What we’re doing here today is symbolic of this Lutheran University,” said Jose D. Padilla, J.D., president of Valparaiso University. It symbolizes that we are open to all faiths.”
The project involved two architects: one from the Middle East to ensure cultural authenticity and a local architect to meet all code and construction requirements. Construction of the institute is estimated to be completed within 12 months.
Dr. Rifai’s connection to Valparaiso University runs deep, with many of his family members and children attending the institution. As a resident of Northwest Indiana for over 37 years, Dr. Rifai has always harbored a strong desire to foster acceptance and unity among people of all faiths and generations. Valparaiso University is proud to be part of making this goal a reality, and to take this concrete step towards a diverse, accepting environment.
