The President's
Post
“PROGRESS
IN PROCESS” has been our central theme for the last year or two,
and the progress we are making is amazing. During the past two weeks,
I have attended meetings with architects to discuss ten different campus
projects. Most importantly, these are all being funded by money we have
raised or are in the process of raising. Many campuses fund projects
on the backs of current and future students and their tuition dollars.
We do not. And because of our fiscal prudence, Ozarks is virtually debt
free. Following is a brief preview of what to watch for at Ozarks.
WALKER HALL
The University secured the second largest gift in
our history, $7 million from Willard and Pat Walker, to build a new
building on the current site of Hurie Hall. Walker Hall, to be completed
by January 2003, will be home to the Education and Communication programs.
MUNGER CHAPEL This summer we hope to renovate the lower level
of the Chapel and to add an elevator. Keep this goal in your prayers!
MABEE RESIDENCE HALL Construction has begun on our third apartment-style
residence hall to complement Cary-Wortz and Bagwell-Jones Halls.
MACLEAN RESIDENCE HALL We will begin to renovate MacLean this
summer. Now that is going to be a project!
HEALTH, WELLNESS, & RECREATION CENTER We have submitted a proposal
to a foundation in hopes of funding this much-needed facility.
ATHLETIC FIELD COMPLEX Under the direction of Mr. Jim Abbuhl,
we are developing a long-range master plan to address the athletic and
intramural needs of our current and future students.
CAMPUS ENTRYWAY The construction currently occurring at the corner
of College and University is our new walkway to the campus. This will
be an impressive and beautiful structure to welcome visitors to the
University.
KING/SMITH PLAZA This informal gathering area between King and
Smith Halls will have pathways, benches, a small stage and distinctive
landscaping. I think you will enjoy many peaceful moments in this long-needed
addition.
CAMPUS SIGNAGE Brick and limestone signs will soon be built to
identify each building from the perimeter of the campus. The signage
is something we have needed for some time.
VOORHEES HALL We are in the preliminary stages of determining
the best use of Voorhees and how to renovate it. I am worn out just
thinking about all that we are doing at Ozarks. But, my goodness, isn’t
it fun to be a part of it!
Dr. Rick Niece
President
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