The Wood Commons was formally opened on Saturday, October 27, 2007 during Homecoming Weekend. This area for students, faculty, staff and alumni to gather was made possible by a generous donation from Margaret Wood, widow of former faculty member and alumnus Leonard Wood.

The following is a speech given by Margaret Wood on 10/26/07 at the opening of the Leonard E. & Margaret R. Wood Commons:

"Good Morning, this occasion is very dear to my heart and at the same time quite emotional for me. Some acknowledgements are important: Jim Brehm, formerly of the Development Office for Civil Engineering and now with the Krannert School of Management in the same capacity, recognized how much the students meant to Len. After consulting with the leadership of the School of Civil Engineering, Jim was able to identify a place that would meet significant needs of students, faculty, and alumni for a place to gather, thus the COMMONS. Dr. Katherine Banks, head of the School of Civil Engineering approved the idea and with her committee consisting of Cindy Lawley, John Dinkins, architects, and an interior designer, formulated their opinions as to what might be feasible bringing this to a reality. John Habermann recalled the collection of gems, minerals, and rocks which Len had accumulated over the years, contact Dr. Nelson Shafer, head, Coal and Industrial Minerals for the Indiana Geological Survey who made trips here appraising, some identifying, and submitted plans for their use. You will note the three cases 'house' just some of the items or specimens and as mentioned on the plaque will be rotated every now and then placing more for additional display and viewing. To Cindy Lawley with thanks for her expertise and proper positing of the exhibit. It looks 'great', I think.

Len’s life centered around the students 100% being truly devoted to them and I should know after 57 years of marriage. The camaraderie and respect between student and teacher was an absolute joy for me to watch and be even a slight part of the 'scene'. The office door was always open and available making them feel free to stop anytime. He remained after hours, returned to the building later in the evenings for various meetings and get together with them. His work with the Coop Program was legendary with regard to the 'job market' and followed their progress every step of the way, not only when at Purdue but in their future endeavors. When traveling, made an extra effort to stop for visits and note what they had accomplished. He remembered birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and when a new addition to the family arrived, hoped the 2^nd generation would enroll at Purdue in the School of Civil Engineering. It was an amazing relationship as their mentor, counselor, teacher, and especially as a friend. I know he was loved by all whose lives he touched and it was returned to him two-fold by their success, the students.

Leaving for the summer, the project started in June so friends kept me posted either via pictures or letters as construction progressed. When the return was made this fall from Minnesota, I saw the room and my first reaction was like a little child saying, 'This is really awesome, chic, neat, wow, and how about that!' And now with a definite lump in my throat, this is really unbelievable and then again, for the students.

The kindness and caring shown by you has been and continues to be overwhelming and through it all, a 'labor of love'. Words cannot express what your enthusiasm, interest, and support have meant to me, not only in the past years, but now.

Len was a humble and gentle man, always deeply appreciative of any honors or tributes given him but at the same time not deliberately seeking publicity. Thus, in closing, I want to add: Remember the old television series of STAR TREK? William Shatner played the role of Captain Kirk on the Space Ship, ENTERPRISE. Every once in a while Captain Kirk would say to his engineer, named Scotty, 'Beam me up, Scotty'. Well, I somehow believe Len is 'beaming down on us' saying: 'This is certainly a surprise, something very special, am grateful to be thought of but so pleased for the students.' I want to respond: 'Len, you did it your way, it was the right way, and the COMMONS is a legacy you have left.' Which I think we all agree makes us proud and is well deserved. This one’s for you and the students with my love and others, as well.

Love to and for you all with many heartfelt thanks…"