The Rec Gets a Professional Upgrade in Honor of 'Rug' Hall

Our Rec is getting a major technical upgrade, and it’s all thanks to the enduring spirit of one man: William Edward "Rug" Hall '70.

Through the Rug Hall Fund, a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system is being installed to honor Hall, a beloved CHA graduate who passed away in 2016. Known as a "social innovator," Hall was the driving force behind "Rugapalooza"—a musical reunion that brought together CHA alumni, families, and friends, the most recent of which took place in 2025 during Homecoming Weekend.

What began as a tribute by classmate Bob Peck blossomed into a massive community effort. Nearly 60 donors have now contributed to ensure that the venue—which hosted several Rugapalooza concerts—remains a professional-caliber learning space.

With the renovation, The Rec will move far beyond a standard school theater, becoming a professional-grade technical lab. 

“Our students will have the opportunity to learn on state-of-the-art equipment, including new digital lighting and sound consoles, a full complement of high-end color-changing LED stage lights, high-intensity followspots, 24 wireless microphones, and a powerful, flexible professional speaker system—tools that will take their creativity, technical skills, and confidence to new heights,” says Megan Monaghan, director of the Arts at SCH. “The equipment will allow them to experiment, collaborate, and bring their ideas and productions to life. Billy’s impact will be felt in every spotlight, every mix, and every performance.”

The new installation includes:

• Digital Command Centers: New high-end digital lighting and sound consoles.
• Next-Gen Lighting: A full suite of color-changing LED stage lights and high-intensity followspots.
• Audio Excellence: 24 wireless microphones and a powerful, flexible professional speaker system.
• Student Opportunity: A redesigned booth where student technicians can experiment with professional-caliber mixing and design.

Thanks to the Rug Hall Fund, students will have the tools to take their creative confidence to new heights.