A Holiday Glow: Dollye Neal Chapel Shines as a Community Gathering PlaceDecember 10, 2025

By Brie Ragland, MC's Director of Marketing & Communications

As the sun sets over Midland College, the Dollye Neal Chapel transforms into one of the most peaceful, and picturesque, spots on campus. This year, the outside of the Chapel is beautifully decorated for the holiday season, creating a warm, inviting glow that has quickly become a favorite backdrop for family Christmas photos and quiet evening strolls. Inside, visitors will also find a simple, elegant Christmas tree that adds to the charm.

The Chapel, open to the public daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., was created and endowed through the generosity of Dollye Neal Ballenger (1919–2007) as “a place apart” for students, staff, faculty, friends, and community members. Dedicated in January 2004 to the memory of her parents, Jewel and Ike Neal, and her aunt Roxie and uncle A.D. Neal, the nondenominational space continues to fulfill that vision, providing a serene and beautiful setting for small weddings, memorials, recitals, meetings, and personal reflection.

Community members are already stopping by to take Christmas photos beneath its glow; some at golden hour, others beneath the lights after sunset. Whether it's a family portrait, a snapshot with friends, or simply a quiet moment on the steps, the chapel is offering Midlanders a place to make memories during one of the most joyful times of the year.

Ballenger herself was a true West Texas original: kind, spiritual, endlessly curious, and deeply creative. Growing up in a ranching family across Garden City, San Angelo, and Midland, she carried that spirit of independence and artistry throughout her life. She painted, traveled, read, and taught, always seeing the world through the eyes of an artist. 

When she gifted $1 million to Midland College in 2002 to build and maintain the Chapel, she did so with a clear purpose: to create a place where people could feel peace, joy, and connection. She also loved twinkling lights and specifically set aside part of her gift to ensure the building could be beautifully adorned each holiday season, a tradition that continues today.

This season, her vision feels especially alive. The Dollye Neal Chapel stands as a testament to the power of generosity and the importance of having a space where everyone feels welcome. As neighbors and families gather beneath its glow, it reaffirms something we hold dear at Midland College: Our campus is your campus. We exist to serve this community, and we’re proud to be a place where Midlanders can find beauty, belonging, and a sense of home, during the holidays and throughout the year.