Mac McCandless exudes Zag spirit! Having been an employee for over 20 years at Gonzaga University, as an architect, Mac has helped Gonzaga’s campus not only grow but flourish in beauty. “GU has given me so much during these years; a basis from which I can practice architecture and campus planning, an avenue for me and my children to obtain higher education and a stimulating academic environment in which to work,” explains Mac. “But most of all, Gonzaga has given me an opportunity to live and express my faith by contributing to its mission of educating the whole person – mind, body and spirit. For I believe that by doing that I am helping to advance the ideals, values and teachings of the Catholic Church and the Society of Jesus.”
Mac holds a teaching certificate in secondary education that he received from Gonzaga in 1993. Last year, Mac’s family celebrated as one of his sons, Kel, graduated from GU, and now Conor, another son, is considering GU for this fall. Mac cannot express enough his gratitude and enthusiasm for the University.
“We are called to be that messenger, each of us to the degree God has given us talents,” says Mac. “I feel strongly that by applying my talents and expertise through my gifts in architecture and creating a pleasant physical environment for Gonzaga, I am assisting in educating students. When it comes to design, art and architecture, people generally say ‘I know what I like,’ when they really only ‘like what they know.’ My job is to broaden that outlook, to open students’ eyes to new ideas, new ways on looking at things and doing things. That’s what gets me up every morning! And that’s why I feel I must give back to GU for giving me this opportunity.
That’s why Mac McCandless gives back to Gonzaga, and now Mac tags you.