Zauk Circle:
A Revitalized Gateway to Austin College
By Tori Walters
The story of Zauk Circle begins with the legacy of Margaret Binkley Zauk Collins, tireless volunteer and benefactor of the College who dedicated much of her life to its growth and success. Though she earned her degree elsewhere, she attended Austin College in 1936 and always said AC was “her” school. Over the years, she and her husband, Bill Collins, made numerous gifts to the College, including the endowment of several scholarships and the creation of the Zauk Circle Garden at the campus entrance near Wortham. They also contributed the sculpture Quest, by Japanese artist Masaru Takiguchi, which was placed in the center of the circle in 1980.
This gateway to the Austin College campus has recently undergone a remarkable transformation, with the revitalization of Zauk Circle—the focal point of which is now the large, illuminated Austin College shield, proudly displayed in the center. Surrounded by vibrant landscaping and an ADA-accessible walkway, the shield offers an eye-catching focal point that instantly signals to its admirers that they are in the heart of ’RooNation. The transformation also includes new plantings and the replacement of old hedges along Grand Avenue with low fences, providing a more open and inviting view of the campus, made possible by a new generation of philanthropy. This newly enhanced entrance warmly welcomes visitors, offering a blend of aesthetic beauty and meaningful symbolism that reflects the College’s deep roots and bright future.
Another striking feature of the newly renovated area is the inclusion of crimson and gold banners that decorate the solar-powered streetlights along Grand Avenue. These banners serve as an outward declaration that visitors are entering the vibrant and proud community of Austin College.
For returning students and alumni, Zauk Circle has long been a beloved landmark, and the new enhancements ensure that the space continues to embody a warm and welcoming spirit—though they might wonder where its previous tenant, the Quest sculpture, has gone. The iconic work of art can now be found north of Abell Library, preserving a piece of Austin College’s history and giving viewers better access to the sculpture.
With the revitalization of Zauk Circle now complete, every visitor to the campus is greeted with a vibrant and inviting view that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Quest, created by Japanese artist Masaru Takiguchi, was a gift from the Collins family. Inspired by Rodin’s The Thinker, it represents the interconnectedness of various academic disciplines at Austin College.