A ‘topping off” marks the point when a structure’s highest element is hoisted into place, a practice that started in Scandinavia over 1,000 years ago. Upon reaching the highest point, workers traditionally put into place a small evergreen tree as a symbol of good faith and good luck.

Builders, administrators, faculty, and staff celebrated the “topping off” of the new Continuing Education Mesa College Campus. The two-story, 38,000-square-foot facility will consolidate operations currently housed in temporary locations throughout San Diego. The new facility will offer classes through the DSPS, Emeritus, and ESL programs. The project is on track to obtain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) silver certification.