The War Memorial Chapel was designed in 1960 by John Gaw Meem of Meem, Holien, Buckley and Associates. The structure reflects Franciscan Mission style architecture, featuring a distinctive double bell tower and balcony facade. Built with hollow tile and shale brick, the chapel combines traditional New Mexico architectural elements with mid-century construction techniques.
The chapel’s interior showcases several notable artistic elements. Above the altar stands a reredos installed in 1963, designed by art Professor John Tatschl based on sketches provided by architect John Gaw Meem. The retablos were painted by John M. Gonzales of Las Vegas, New Mexico, in 1984, adding richly detailed religious imagery to the sacred space.
The south wall of the chapel serves as a memorial, displaying names of alumnae who died in wars beginning with World War I. This solemn feature honors those lost in military service and establishes the chapel’s role as a place of remembrance and reflection.
