Penn State Shenango to upgrade auditorium

More than $450,000 already has been contributed to kick off the campaign.

SPECIAL TO THE VINDICATOR

SHARON, Pa. — It was scarcely two years ago that Penn State Shenango completed a $9.4 million renovation of its Sharon Hall and Lecture Hall buildings, and the campus has now embarked on a $3.3 million plan to upgrade its auditorium.

One of the campus’ greatest needs is for an area where students and community members can gather for events that shape cultural life and public discourse, said Steve Hessmann, director of development and alumni relations.

The auditorium in Sharon Hall has served as a venue for lectures and events but its seating and equipment limit its versatility and some individuals with physical disabilities are unable to get into the facility, he said.

The campus has launched an effort to change all that with a plan designed to improve climate control (including air conditioning) for year-round use, entrances and seating that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, restroom facilities, a new should system that will include assisted listening technology, flexible seating that will allow space for dinner events as well as performances and meetings and a promenade and courtyard.

The total cost is estimated at $3.3 million and almost all of that money will have to come from private support, Hessmann said.

The project will be done over a period of time, not all at once, and the campus is looking to raise $950,000 locally for the initial phases of the renovation. The drive is part of Pennsylvania State University’s “For the Future” campaign.

The local fund-raising effort is off to a solid start, with Paul and Eleanor Chadderton, longtime supporters of the campus, contributing $305,000 for the auditorium project. Large gifts have also been made from other long-time Penn State Shenango supporters. Jean and Diane Daffin have contributed $100,000 and Vera Lartz has provided a $50,000 gift. The first phase of the project begins later this month.