Construction

This summer has been a busy one, as the sights and sounds of construction equipment were evident across the campus. Among the more notable projects to improve Houghton’s physical plant were:

The first phase of the chapel upgrade—This project actually started before the semester ended last year, and included a carefully orchestrated sequence of subcontractor activity. The seats have been refurbished, the walls and ceiling painted, and the carpet and lighting upgraded. Additionally the organ pipes have been cleaned and the sound system has been upgraded. Final touches are still being implemented, but the use of the chapel began again in August. As the Advancement Office continues successful fund raising for phase two of the chapel renovation, the chapel committee will be planning the next steps this fall. They will be discussing the renovation of the stage area, stage lighting, air conditioning and the best way to upgrade the rest of the building areas. Additional pictures of the chapel renovations.

The library addition—The new floor is enclosed, and the project is on schedule. The seven new classrooms, 14 faculty offices, lounge areas, elevator and the bridge linking the library to the Chamberlain Center will be fully operational by second semester. Additional pictures of the construction work on the third floor of the Willard J. Houghton Library.

Chamberlain Center changes—New carpet has been laid in the classrooms on the first floor, and new equipment has been purchased for the link room, to enhance the quality of the connection between Houghton and the West Seneca campus. The Student Government Association (SGA) allocated money from its Student Project Fund to renovate the atrium, including a new paint scheme (pictured at left), new carpet and new furniture. The space now includes a permanent spot for Java 101’s coffee cart and will soon have 16 colorful banners.

Renovation in Shenewana—replacement of furniture and carpeting on the final floor brought new flexibility to this men’s residence hall. More noticeable was change to the entrance, shifting its level to make it ADA compliant.

New walkways and driveways—New pavement restored the access road behind Lambein Hall and new concrete replaced worn-out sidewalks in several areas across campus. The college added a new sidewalk from the campus center to the chapel.

House purchased—The college purchased the house owned by Professor Emeritus of Voice Bruce Brown and his wife, Cherie, next to McMillan House and converted it to student “themed” housing. Seven women students have moved in as the first occupants, with a global engagement theme.

Milieu welcomes readers' comments.—Ed.