Penn State Shenango finishes renovation to campus auditorium
STAFF REPORT
SHARON, Pa. — Penn State Shenango has completed the renovation of its campus auditorium, Phase One of a $3.3 million improvement project.
It was more than two years ago that Penn State Shenango completed a $9.4 million renovation of its Sharon Hall and Lecture Hall buildings, and, last spring, announced plans to begin renovation of its auditorium at 147 Shenango Ave. to transform the facility into a more conducive and pleasant venue for campus and community events.
The auditorium project has an overall $3.3 million price tag but is being done in phases.
Future phases are focused on infrastructure and aesthetic upgrades.
The auditorium now has more comfortable seating, full handicapped accessibility, new restrooms and a level floor that makes the space more versatile.
Phase One was funded by local philanthropy, including a lead gift of $305,000 by Paul and Eleanor Chadderton and substantial support from Jean and Diane Daffin in the amount of $100,000 and $50,000 from Vera Lartz.
Penn State University’s Office of Physical Plant also provided approximately one-third of the renovation costs, in addition to technical oversight.
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, when the auditorium project was announced.
The auditorium in Sharon Hall had served as a venue for lectures and events but its seating and equipment limited its versatility and some individuals with physical disabilities were unable to get into the facility, he said.