About the Columbarium
We suggest you talk with a Malkoff Commemorative Services Memorial Advisor (please see "Contact Us") to answer the specific and personal questions that may concern you. In the meantime, you may find the answers to some of your questions here:

1. Who is eligible to purchase a niche?
Members of the University family and the general public are eligible to purchase a niche.

2. Can niches be purchased on a pre-need as well as on an "as needed" basis?
Niches, which will accommodate either one or two urns, can be purchased at any time, either pre-need or as needed. At the appropriate time, names with pertinent dates will be engraved on the marble cover.

3. Who will discuss with me the cremation procedures?
A funeral home and/or funeral director of your choice will provide this information; referrals are available upon request.

4. How does inurnment compare with burial costs?
Inurnment is considerably more economical than burial, while offering security and elegance.

5. Will perpetual care of the Columbarium be guaranteed?
Chapman University has a significant endowment with which it guarantees the Columbarium will be cared for and maintained in perpetuity.

6. Can the Wallace All Faiths Chapel be used for memorial services?
Yes, the 12,500 square-foot Ray and Pauline Wallace All Faiths Chapel, which includes seating for 250 in the Donald Yoder Sanctuary and 50 in the J.E. and Flora Scott Wilkinson Founders Chapel, can be used for memorial services. The University’s Conference Services will help you arrange with University chaplains or clergy of your choice in planning and/or providing appropriate services in the Chapel in conjunction with the inurnment of ashes.

7. Will the Columbarium be accessible for future visits and reflection?
As is the case with the Fish Interfaith Center, the Columbarium will generally be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. most weekdays and can be visited by appointment as well. The meditation garden adjacent to the columbarium is open the same hours as the Center, and, with its beautiful plantings and lighting, provides a lovely, quiet place to reflect. During school vacation periods, the Center’s hours may be reduced; you can call the Center at 714-628-7260 to verify current times for public access.

8. If my plans change, can I re-sell my niche?
If your plans change, you may sell your niche back to Chapman University for the original purchase price, less a documentation fee, providing the marble cover has not been engraved. If engraving has been done, further fees will apply. University Columbarium policies do not allow re-sale of niches to third parties.

About the Cenotaph

1. What is a cenotaph?
A cenotaph is a wall of memorial plaques for those who are buried elsewhere but whose family and friends wish them to be remembered at this site.

2. Where is the cenotaph?
The Cenotaph at the Fish Interfaith Center is located in the Garden of the Senses adjacent to the Columbarium.

3. What does the cenotaph look like?
The Cenotaph at Chapman University is constructed of beautiful sky-blue marble. It is 16 feet tall and is a work of art designed by artist Susan Narduli.

4. May I reserve a Cenotaph space in advance?
Yes, a cenotaph space may be reserved in advance of need or at time of need.