Iconic Tri-Cities college statue will get a major facelift. Here’s why
An iconic Hawk statue that for decades has adorned the southeast corner of the Columbia Basin College campus will be getting a major facelift.
The Pasco college says its welding students are taking up a refurbishment project to improve the large metal sculpture, at 20th Street and the Interstate 182 onramp, to be unveiled by fall 2026.
The structure was originally designed and built by CBC students in 1958.
The effort also comes as CBC celebrates seven decades of serving Tri-Cities students.
“Seventy years of Columbia Basin College represents seven decades of service, progress and dedication to our community,” President Rebekah Woods said in a statement.
The college this fall is also formally renaming the SWL building as the Richard Cummins Social Sciences and World Languages Building.
That effort recognizes the dedication and impact of a former CBC president, who served as chief educator from 2008 to 2017 and dedicated his career to increasing the college’s outreach, as well as student retention and success.
“It’s fitting that we celebrate by honoring Dr. Cummins’ legacy and by engaging our talented students in creating something enduring — a powerful symbol of pride and inspiration for generations to come,” Woods said.
Cummins said in a statement that he was “deeply honored” to have his name on a building that reflects the college’s mission of learning, growth and student achievement.
“This recognition is truly humbling,” he said.
The SWL Building, also known as the Social Sciences and World Languages Center, is a three-story, 65,000-square-foot building that opened in January 2017.
The $14 million space for psychology, sociology, philosophy, history, criminal justice, and language programs was mostly paid for by money from the Washington state Legislature.
It was initially scheduled for construction in 2007 before state finances were strapped by the Great Recession. It was sidelined until 2013, when lawmakers began allocating funds for the building’s design.
Fall quarter 2025 classes began Sept. 15 for more than 8,000 part- and full-time students seeking undergraduate degrees and certifications.
