The memorial will be open to the public at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Parrish Auditorium of Miami University Hamilton. A reception will be held after the ceremony in the Harry T. Wilks Conference Center, which Wilks helped create as a 1948 alumnus of Miami University.
“We miss Harry tremendously,” said MUH Communications Officer Perry Richardson. “He was a gigantic advocate for education and the arts and you’re going to get that sense during the memorial service.”
The memorial will feature several speakers, including MUH President David Hodge and sculptor John Henry, whose work resides at Pyramid Hill, and a video presentation. There will also be performances by pianist Connor Chee and members of the Cincinnati Opera.
To further celebrate Wilks’ legacy, Pyramid Hill is planning a Founder’s Day celebration on a date yet to be determined, to coincide with the unveiling of Henry’s newest sculpture on Pyramid Hill, which will be placed at the entrance to the park. Park admission will be free that day, according to park manager Rick Batdorf.
Memorial attendees who wish to express their condolences may make a gift to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road, for the forest restoration fund.
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