Summer was an exciting time of renewal at Lawrence. Students, faculty and staff returned to campus a few short weeks ago to a number of changes and improvements to our campus and community – the result of a busy summer on the part of our facilities, HR and other departments. These were deliberate efforts, consistent with our strategic plan, to invest in physical and human capital over the short term to avoid major costs in the long term. Many of these changes were accomplished from the generosity of donors as well as planned investments from our annual operating budget.
Walking through campus, one can’t help but notice many improvements to our physical appearance. When the underground chiller system was replaced last spring, we took the opportunity to redesign the plaza between the library and the art center. Additional seating and upgraded landscaping was funded by one of our many generous donors.
In addition, several changes were made to add parking capacity in anticipation of the city’s new parking plan. Fifty-six new spaces were constructed for faculty and staff daytime parking next to the chapel. In addition, parking behind Plantz Hall was reconfigured to provide student parking immediately behind Plantz and faculty/staff daytime parking in the lots at Meade and Washington.
To facilitate additional parking in the future, while preserving the historic character of the City Park neighborhood, the house formerly located at 122 N. Union was moved to 229 N. Union where it now sits across the street from the park. Ultimately, the house will become the residence of our Provost.
Other notable physical changes to campus include the resurfacing of the Chapman Hall parking lot and the replacement of broken sidewalks in front of the building to provide a more welcoming experience for first-time visitors to campus. In addition, the renovations made to Colman Hall last year were finalized with the addition of new landscaping in the courtyard.
Several improvements have been made to the small houses on Boldt Way. And, another section of stained glass was removed, rebuilt and reinstalled in the chapel.
Other improvements include the second phase of the bathroom remodels in Ormsby Hall, made possible by an anonymous donor. The third and final phase will be completed in future years.
One of the biggest changes to campus is not to our facilities but to our community itself. This academic year, we will welcome some 85 new colleagues to our faculty and staff. Among these are new faculty – tenure-line, adjuncts, part-time teachers, fellows and Academy faculty. Others include several staff positions, assistant coaches, and residence hall directors.
Much has been accomplished during the summer months that will have a lasting impact to our campus and to our community.