In what’s become an exciting and anticipated holiday tradition on campus, Tina Hallock has revealed her latest gingerbread creation — a replica of the Carole Weinstein International Center.

The impressive, edible building is the latest of Hallock’s annual gingerbread construction projects. Hallock made Cannon Memorial Chapel her first year on campus after her husband, Kevin F. Hallock, became the University’s president in 2021. The following year, in 2022, she created Boatwright Memorial Library. Last year, Hallock created Robins Center arena, complete with basketball hoops, WebstUR, and stands full of fans.

Hallock and her three siblings grew up baking with her mom, a professional baker. She continues the tradition, often making treats for family, friends, and her Well 100 students. And at the end of the year, she brings University of Richmond buildings to life in her kitchen.

“I do this for fun and to honor treasured locations on campus,” Hallock said.

Since Thanksgiving happened later in November this year, Hallock had about a week less than usual to finish the project, which she displays in her home during holiday events. She chose the International Center because it’s a square, which she thought would be easier to create than some of her past selections. It instead became a fun challenge.

“Once I started the design process and began dissecting the building, I realized that one of the things that makes the International Center so beautiful is that it is so incredibly layered,” Hallock said. “There are two stories, a courtyard, and so many windows.”

Still, Hallock pressed on and completed the building, thanks in part to some helpers around campus, which included her friends Sarah Lee, manager of fitness and facilities for University Recreation, and Carole Hardt, wife of John Hardt, vice president and director of athletics. 

“I had some extra special help over the Thanksgiving holiday when Kevin’s parents were visiting,” Hallock said. “Bob, my father-in-law, helped with the windows.”

In addition to the gingerbread, which is baked from scratch in her kitchen, other ingredients include a variety of candies, cookies, and marshmallows.  New this year, Hallock used Twizzlers to create the archways. She says that a common question comes up each year as she shares the creation.

“People ask me immediately what the next building will be.”

Click here for a walk-through of this year's creation.