Science Building Update

The construction that began last semester aimed at expanding Science Hall has really begun to take shape; In fact, the exterior of the addition is close to being finished. Vice President for Administration and Finance Steve Bolyai indicated there will be two phases to this project; the first phase, which is underway now, will be completed next year and the second phase should finish up in 2011.  

                Phase One involves the construction of the new wing, and will provide space for new classrooms, science labs, and faculty research facilities. Two large lecture halls in the existing building will then be converted into smaller classrooms and computer labs.

                Phase Two will involve a renovation of the entire building. Classrooms and public spaces will be upgraded including lighting, wall finishes and furniture. The building will be unoccupied during the work in an effort to keep interference with classes and other uses of the building to a minimum.

                Other campus improvements made this past summer include new exterior campus maps at major entries, signage marking the lots and all of the buildings, as well as improving the pedestrian walkway from Raubinger Hall to Shea Auditorium and adding a new stairway from Raubinger Hall towards Morrison Hall. The expansion to Science Hall was funded prior to last year's budget freeze, and maintenance that is ongoing around campus is taking place on a budget that was reduced by the freeze.

                Hopefully these improvements being made to our campus will demonstrate for our students that the faculty and staff of William Paterson University do care about their future; they want to provide the best possible education and give students as many opportunities as possible to gain useful experience. With the economy being unstable and the job market being extremely tight, getting an education and making use of the internship program could very well give a WPU graduate the edge on getting the job they've been looking for.