Controlling Board OKs $1.8 Million for Wayne College Expansion

Akron, Ohio, June 16, 2008 — Expansion and renovation efforts at The University of Akron's Wayne College — including the new Student Life Building — received a major boost today, as the Ohio Controlling Board approved $1,833,293 for those projects.

“The funding from the state is greatly appreciated and reflects once again the unique partnership that has always supported our work here at Wayne: the State of Ohio, the community and the college itself,” says Wayne College Dean Jack Kristofco. “As we begin construction of this new building, we look forward to the resources it will bring, and the opportunity to enhance and enrich the programs and services we provide.”

The new Student Life Building's 36,000 square feet will house the J.M. Smucker Multi-purpose Room for instruction, speakers, performers, and college and community events; a student center that includes a Barnes & Noble Bookstore, dining facility, student lounge and offices for student organizations; a suite of classrooms; and offices and teaching spaces for the Office of Continuing Education and Workforce Development.

The Student Life Building is the first new stand-alone facility at the Wayne campus since it opened in 1972.

The funding approved today also will go toward basic renovation work at the campus.

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