The iconic “Phoenix Rising” statue at UW-Green Bay has officially found its new home. This striking 13-foot sculpture, crafted from steel and stainless steel, was carefully relocated on Thursday to stand proudly in front of the Kress Events Center.
The relocation of the statue was executed by crews using a crane to lift and transport it across the campus on a flatbed truck. This move is part of a broader transformation initiative that includes the construction of a new facility to replace the aging Cofrin Library, which has served the campus for 52 years.
Vice Chancellor Dawn Crim expressed her excitement about the development, highlighting the statue’s significance: “It really shows the transformation of campus. It’s migrating from the Cofrin Library, our iconic building, over to the Kress Center where athletics is on the rise. So it will be in front of the Kress Events Center and will welcome visitors there.”
“Phoenix Rising,” designed by esteemed artist and Green Bay native Carl Vanderheyden, symbolizes the evolving identity of the university and its commitment to progress. This move not only enhances the campus’s aesthetic but also reflects a vibrant future as athletic programs grow and thrive.
The relocation is a notable event, suggesting a positive evolution for the university community, encouraging students and visitors alike to engage with the arts and athletics in a new, inspiring setting.