Board of Trustees Approves Nearly $12 Million of Campus Improvements

April 22, 1996

April 22, 1996, Greencastle, Ind. - At its annual spring meeting, the DePauw University Board of Trustees approved nearly $12 million of improvements to the campus that are designed to enhance residential and social life. The Trustees decided to finance the improvements through issuing bonds and securing gifts. The majority of the improvements will be completed within one year. The decision to proceed with the improvements was based on information gathered from surveys distributed to students on campus during the fall semester. Sixty-four percent of students responded to the questionnaires.

"I am confident that the planned improvements will not only enhance DePauw's outstanding physical plant but also provide many more options and services for our students. Because so many students responded to the Quality of Life questionnaire in the fall with very helpful information, I think the administration and students are in agreement on what needs to be done to make the DePauw experience even better," President Robert G. Bottoms said. "These efforts are part of our comprehensive plan to emphasize DePauw's commitment to being a residential college, and we intend to implement them quickly. As a residential college, we know that a sense of community plays an important role in the growth and development of our students."

Improvements to campus will include:

An $8.2 million renovation of the Memorial Student Union Building to install a food court, create a 1,500-square-foot game room, double the size of the bookstore and construct a convenience store.
A debit card system that will enable students to use various food plan and vending options, laundry services, bookstore and other services.
An enhancement of residence halls, including an upgrade of computer equipment, new carpet and furniture and renovation of bathrooms.
Expansion of facilities in the Lilly Physical Education and Recreation Center, including an expanded exercise and weight room and a snack bar.
Renovation of Blackstock Stadium and improvement, of athletic facilities, particularly those for women. Lights will be installed at the outdoor tennis courts and intramural field, and the lights and basketball goals in the Blackstock Stadium parking lot will be upgraded.
Enhancement of academic program and support equipment, including upgrades of equipment in the Center for Contemporary Media and computers in the Career Services Office.