University Center features a bigger and better front desk even if new students and first-time visitors don’t know it.
“The new design seems to make the information desk more noticeable,” said Jeff Davis, director, University Center. “It seems to be drumming up business, because we’re getting a lot more people stopping by.”
Carolyn Fox, university architect, Facilities Services, said the UC first floor renovation project included the new desk, upgraded finishes, improved signage and new furnishings. Workers created new areas for gamers to play and some new casual seating areas in the center as well.
Construction at the southwest entry to the center should be completed in a few weeks, she said. A new steel tower and canopy will adorn the entrance long after the construction equipment is gone.
Returning students and faculty may be surprised by the renovations to the center but several parts of campus got makeovers and a fresh look thanks to several projects orchestrated by Facilities Services between spring and fall semesters.
Fox provided an overview of summer construction, noting that the UC first floor upgrade was among the small projects compared to the renovations needed in University Hall. Summer classes in the Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences take place there and offered an additional challenge to planning. The fire suppression project in University Hall is one example of the two larger projects.
“We were given money from the state to improve the life safety in University Hall,” Fox said. “This involved installing a new fire sprinkler system, new exit signs and modifications to three classrooms for assembly occupancy. Because Beth-El classes are held year-round, we needed to relocate them for the summer. For eight weeks, the faculty worked from home, staff worked from rooms in Summit Village, and classes were held in the old Penrose Hospital at Academy and Carefree.”
University Hall also required some acoustical upgrades.
“Last year the Music Department moved into two rooms that are located near Beth-El classrooms,” she said. “Sound emanating from these practice rooms caused disruptions for the Beth-El instructors and students. This project created acoustical separation between the two areas. At the same time, we were able to improve the lighting, ceilings, floors, and finishes in the music area so they are much more attractive spaces.”
The chancellor’s suite renovation combined two reception areas into a single larger one. One receptionist at the front desk greets visitors on behalf of the chancellor and for University Advancement offices. This allows a cost savings as the university is providing a salary for one receptionist instead of two.
Fox said workers modified the Admissions and Records area in Main Hall room 108 to create a more welcoming and efficient area. New self-serve computer kiosks will be installed in the near future to expedite many processes.
An acoustically isolated testing station was a summer improvement to Disability Services and Testing in Main Hall room 105.
Outdoor improvements include two crushed stone pathways through the lawns to allow foot traffic from Parking Lot 4 to Osborne Center and the pedestrian spine as well as usual landscaping and grounds maintenance.
“Facilities Services works hard to ensure that our lawns, flower beds, landscaping and accessories, such as signs, benches, banners, etc. provide a welcoming and beautiful campus. Facilities has one part of an important role in supporting student recruitment and retention by providing a pleasant learning and working environment,” said Gary Reynolds, executive director, Facilities Services.
— Photos by Jeff Foster, University Advancement
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