Investing in Education

Having completed the restoration of Dodona Manor and a created a successful educational platform, the George C. Marshall International Center is now embarking on the establishment of a new Education Center. It is planned as a two-story building with a footprint of approximately 7,500 square feet on a parcel of land adjoining Dodona Manor. The building will enable the expansion of the Center's programs, and enhance of the visitor experience through a powerful set of permanent exhibits on Marshall's contributions to 20th century history.

Rendering courtesy of Hughes, Good, O'Leary & Ryan in Atlanta, Georgia, and Ayers Saint Gross in Baltimore, Maryland.

Environmentally-Advanced Construction

Marshall's leadership included resolving some of the greatest challenges of his day through his ability to see beyond the immediate. The Center believes that climate change and environmental responsibility are challenges of similar magnitude for our own time; and seeks to meet them with Marshall's brand of foresight and integrity by adhering to the highest international standards for energy efficiency - including both LEED Platinum (US) and Passivhaus (German) Certifications.

Successful use of environmental technology will make the Education Center a popular destination for those wanting to see and learn about sustainable building practices in a practical setting. Like Dodona Manor, it will take advantage of a geothermal technology for heating and air conditioning, and will employ solar technology to heat water, advanced window systems, curtain walling systems, and under-floor systems for maintaining indoor temperatures efficiently and comfortably. REHAU, a world leader in innovative construction and a Center Corporate Sponsor, is providing guidance on environmental issues.  

Powerful Exhibits

Presidential Historian Richard Norton Smith is guiding the design of exhibits on Marshall that will be housed on the main floor of the building. The exhibits will tell the powerful story of this remarkable man - his youth, development, and many accomplishments - and bring out his character, unique style of leadership, and humanity. The lasting impact of the Marshall Plan on the people of Europe will be given special prominence. It was primarily this achievement for which George Marshall was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953 - the only military officer to be so honored.

One of the most dramatic of the Education Center's planned architectural features is a 'history wall' featuring the faces and voices of those who directly benefited from the Marshall Plan. Visitors to the Education Center will be able to electronically isolate and experience the personal stories of their war-time compatriots.

Example exhibit design for the new Education Center	Example exhibit design with key figures from Marshall-era history.

       Courtesy of Split Rock Studios in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Experiential Learning

The lower level of the Education Center will be utilized for the delivery of education programs, primarily for high school students. A series of experiential learning modules will be offered through which participants will role-play major moments of American history, creating a deeper understanding of decision-making and world events. Some will be developed around the leadership and decision-making of George Marshall; others will be modules developed by the Truman and Eisenhower Presidential Libraries. Partnerships are being forged with these libraries to facilitate the Center's delivery of their successful programs.

A Forum for Leadership and Ideas

George Marshall resolved some of the biggest challenges of the 20th century. Accordingly, another plan for the Education Center is to provide, in Marshall's name, a forum for policy and discussion where contemporary issues, such as the challenges presented by climate change or issues in international cooperation, can be examined within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that inspires leadership and new ideas. To meet this objective, additional space will be devoted for lectures, diplomatic gatherings, strategic retreats, and social functions.