A Season of Renewal: TMI’s Theme and Campus Projects

As we move into the summer months, TMI Episcopal has begun a series of important campus maintenance and construction projects. These initiatives—separate from our capital campaign—are funded through the school’s operating budget, made possible by generous support of the TMI Fund and our Community Engagement Council.

This season of renewal provides the perfect backdrop to announce our theme for the 2025-2026 school year: “All Things Made New.”

More than a nod to the visible changes across campus, this theme captures the spirit of transformation taking place within our community. From updated facilities to revitalized energy in our mission, “All Things Made New” reflects our commitment to growth, innovation, and faith in what lies ahead.

Additional Office Added to Ayres Lobby
Construction is currently underway to add an additional office to the Ayres Lobby for the Admissions team. This new space is being built to ensure that each team member is easily accessible from the lobby, enhancing both visibility and efficiency in welcoming guests. Once completed, the updated layout will allow for a more seamless and personal experience for prospective students and their families, as every Admissions representative will have a dedicated, accessible space directly connected to the main lobby. 

Business Office Returns to Ayres Hall
Construction is in progress to return the Business Office to Ayres Hall, a move designed to improve accessibility for parents, volunteers, and other campus visitors. The new location will offer more convenient access and better visibility, supporting stronger connections with our school community. As part of this update, a new conference room is also being added to the space, providing a dedicated area for meetings and collaborative work.

B.E.N. Center 
We’re excited to announce the construction of the new B.E.N. Center, which will be located in the former library space in Ayres Hall. Designed with student wellness and community in mind, the B.E.N. Center will serve as a versatile area for students to use during flex time, free periods, and study halls. The center will feature quiet corners for relaxation and recharging, as well as open areas where students can connect with friends and build community. This new space is part of our broader effort to support student balance, engagement, and connection throughout the school day.

Wellness Team and Student Support Center
As part of our ongoing campus improvements, we’re pleased to announce that the Wellness Team and Student Support services will be relocating to the B.E.N. Center, taking over the space formerly occupied by College Counseling. This updated area will include offices for our school counselors and our learning specialist, along with a dedicated testing room and study space to better support student needs. By placing these essential services within the B.E.N. Center, we’re creating a central hub for wellness, learning, and support—further enhancing our commitment to student well-being and success. Meanwhile, College Counseling will be moving to its new home in Harthan Hall, just off the new library.

Updated Refectory with Expanded Serving Area
One of the most exciting transformations happening this summer is the major renovation of the Refectory—perhaps the most “wow” of all our campus projects outside of the new academic spaces. The walls separating the Harthan Dining Room have been removed to create a significantly expanded serving area, allowing for improved functionality and a more open, welcoming atmosphere. Updates to seating arrangements and traffic flow are designed to make lunch periods more efficient and enjoyable for everyone. Thanks to the generosity of the CEC (Community Engagement Council), our school’s parent-volunteer and auxiliary group, the space will also feature all new furniture, giving the Refectory a fresh, modern look while better supporting our growing community.

Café 18 to become Student Store
We’re excited to share that Café 18 is being transformed into the new student store, bringing school spirit and essentials right to the heart of campus. Relocated from its previous spot in the Frost Athletic Center, the new location offers greater accessibility for both students and families throughout the week. The store will be fully stocked with hoodies, shirts, and a wide range of school swag, along with everyday items students may need during the school day. This update ensures that school pride and convenience are always just steps away.

Café 18 moving to Art Annex
Café 18 is on the move! This summer, it will relocate across the breezeway to the Art Annex, a space that—many years ago—served as a student commons and snack stop. This exciting move returns the space to its original purpose and adds a vibrant third hangout spot on campus, joining the Library and the new B.E.N. Center. The new Café 18 will continue to offer all its beloved staples—cookies, coffee, wraps, and snacks—while becoming an even more lively and inviting place for students to relax during flex and passing periods. It will also serve as a great evening and weekend hangout for Residential Life students. And for a fun twist, it even features a “drive-thru window,” allowing students to grab their favorite treats right from the breezeway!

Upper School Studio Art moves to Walker Innovation Center
We’re excited to share that the recent merger of the Art and Innovation departments has led to the formation of the new Art and Innovation Department—bringing together creativity, design, and exploration under one umbrella. As part of this exciting evolution, the Elkins and Elliott Idea Labs are being transformed into the new Upper School studio art space. This thoughtfully designed area will allow students to fully engage their creativity, whether working inside the dynamic studio or stepping out onto the Mims Terrace, which offers inspiring views overlooking the athletic fields. This renovation marks a bold step forward in how we support student expression and innovation across disciplines.

Updated Branding to the Frost Athletic Center
Exciting upgrades are underway in the Frost Athletic Center, where renovations are transforming the main hallway and entry areas into a bold reflection of our athletic excellence. New branding will line the hallway, celebrating school spirit and team pride, while updated trophy cases and digital record boards will showcase the achievements of our student-athletes in a modern and engaging way. The entrance to the Goertz Sports Performance space is also receiving a stunning redesign. These enhancements ensure that our athletic facilities match the strength, dedication, and success of the programs they support.

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