George and Birda Mishaw’s legacy of hospitality and education honored by naming of new campus courtyard
Belmont dedicated a new courtyard on campus in honor of the Mishaw family, beloved neighbors and friends to both the University and the surrounding community for nearly 70 years. The Mishaw Courtyard, located behind Wiseman Hall off 15th Avenue South, was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sunday, Sept. 14.
For decades, George and Birda Mishaw’s home stood on the property next door to the Wiseman Hall courtyard. Known for their hospitality, the couple raised five children while welcoming students, neighbors and even strangers into their home for Sunday dinners, holidays and fellowship. Their home was a gathering place marked by warmth, generosity and love.
“We hope every student who gathers here experiences the same spirit of welcome the Mishaws offered to their community,” Belmont’s Director of Community Relations Joyce Searcy said. “By naming this space Mishaw Courtyard, we are honoring George and Birda as pillar of this community and celebrating the values of hospitality and education that their family showed.”
The dedication ceremony brought together the Mishaw family, friends and neighbors, with special music provided by Belmont’s gospel choir Voxology.
Two of the Mishaw children attended Belmont, continuing the family’s emphasis on education.
A commemorative plaque at the courtyard entrance tells the story of the Mishaw family and begins with Psalm 133:1,“How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity.”
The courtyard now stands as a lasting symbol of their legacy, serving as a place for Belmont students to gather, eat and build community together.