SRU officials approve construction projects

STAFF REPORT

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — There may soon be some major construction going on at Slippery Rock University.

The university’s Council of Trustees has approved five construction projects totaling $118.9 million as part of the capital budget authorization request for 2009-10. The request first goes to the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education board of governors for consideration before being forwarded to the governor’s office for possible inclusion in his budget request to the Legislature.

A much smaller project that doesn’t have to go on the state wish list is a 2,240-square-foot Leadership Reaction Course Classroom Building, also approved by the trustees.

The facility will serve the university’s leadership development programs.

The $300,000 structure will be built near the existing leadership reaction course facilities. Costs will be split between the executive leadership program and the university’s academic enhancement fund.

Construction will begin this summer, with completion expected next fall. The facility will include storage space for course equipment and provide a meeting area and restroom facilities.

The Executive Leadership Program, which serves SRU students, the SRU Army ROTC program, academic courses and campus organizations, is also used by businesses and organizations interested in building leadership and camaraderie among employees, said William Williams, provost and vice president for academic affairs.

More than 1,700 SRU students took part in the program during the 2008 academic year.

“By approving this expansion, the university’s leadership development program will become even more visible to external audiences and allow even further expansion of our leadership programs,” said Susan Vessela, a member of the council of trustees.

Program participants are shown ways to share visions and increase personal responsibility as well as encourage resourcefulness and creativity in fellow employees.

The state list includes requests for $6.25 million for Phase III of the Central Boiler Plant renovation; $39.9 million for construction of a new Performing Arts Center; $32.97 million for a renovations and additions to Bailey Library; $10.73 million for a McKay Education Building addition; and $28.9 million for renovations to Morrow Field House.