Woulfe Believes CDH Forms Life-long Values
By Greta Cunningham ‘23 - Communications Apprentice
October 26, 2022
The Woulfe Activity Center, which encompasses the Lentsch Forum, Griep Gymnasium, Joe Mauer Field House, and the Patrick Daulton Family Fitness Center, was dedicated in 2012 to James Woulfe ’39, who passed away in 2007, and his wife, Julie McKnight Woulfe, to honor their philanthropic support of Cretin-Derham Hall.
“CDH was the reason my husband had the personality and integrity to live his life the way he did. He always attributed his values to CDH,” said Julie Woulfe.
The Woulfes always believed the Activity Center is symbolic of how dedicated CDH is to offering students a wide range of opportunities for their different talents and interests.
“I have always been impressed with the variety of classes CDH offers, especially in art and drama,” said Julie. “I think different opportunities help make students more well rounded in their personality and interests. It’s important to help give future students access to that sort of curriculum.”
After completing service with the U.S. Marines during World War II, James Woulfe ’39 started what would become a nationally awarded, 53-year long career with Ford Motor Company.
“Service to his country was very important to him. He learned so much in JROTC as a student at Cretin,” said Julie Woulfe. James’ grandfather and father were both Marines, along with one of his sons and grandsons.
Julie Woulfe worked with Hanson Permanente Cement Company in California for 37 years. After their retirement, the Woulfes enjoyed traveling, often visiting James’ roots in St. Paul.
Julie has continued to support CDH generously since her husband’s passing. “It’s been important to me to continue supporting CDH because it meant so much to my husband. It was a promise I made to him early on in our marriage. The things that were most important to him, besides family, were where he got his education and how his values formed at Cretin,” said Julie.
CDH’s Woulfe Activity Center offers today’s students a very well-used and impactful space for those opportunities beyond the classroom that are critical as they grow and develop their own strengths and passions.