Bluffton University

Board of Trustees

02/25/2016

$3 million in residence hall renovations approved

The Bluffton University Board of Trustees has approved $3 million in campus housing improvements, most notably, the addition of apartment style housing for upper class students.

“Through surveys, student feedback and data gathered in facilities master planning, apartment style housing was identified as a priority as well the need for more spacious bathrooms in some of our residence halls. These upgrades will strengthen our priority of creating comfortable learning environments on campus,” said Julie DeGraw, vice president for student life and dean of students.    

Therefore, some of the $3 million will be used to remodel Haunstein and Hirschler Halls in Riley Court to apartments for students. The space is currently used for office space.

Each unit will include three bedrooms and two bathrooms, new windows, kitchens and laundry facilities. There will be six apartments with six students each for a total of 36 beds available to seniors.

Upgrades will also be made to two residence halls. Bathrooms in Hirschy Annex and Bren-Dell Hall will be remodeled. The new bathrooms will be larger and disabled accessible as well as have improved drainage and ventilation.

Carpet, paint and lighting improvements are also in the works for both halls. Hirschy Annex will also receive fire suppression (sprinklers) throughout the building and their own laundry room.

Other action taken during the February meeting includes granting three sabbaticals. Dr. Jonathan Andreas, associate professor of economics, fall semester 2016, will study economics related to median income and life expectancy; Dr. Darryl Nester, professor of mathematics, fall semester 2016, will revise a textbook and develop recruitment tools aimed at high school students; and Dr. Mark Suderman, professor of music, fall semester 2016, will study music therapy. Dr. Suderman will continue to direct Camerata Singers.

The Board also approved emeriti status to two retiring professors: Dr. Bob Antibus, professor of biology and Dr. Susan Carpenter, associate professor of English.

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