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Beautifying Campus: an Update on the Continuous Improvements at Lake Land
from Lake Land Magazine
by Kelly Allee
Students Beautify Campus
This summer and early fall were busy with construction and beautification projects on campus. The newly remodeled spaces are a part of Lake Land’s Growing the Laker Advantage Strategic Plan to modernize equipment, facilities and grounds to support a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
This fall Lake Land students have enjoyed a new peaceful garden area thanks to the hard work of the officers and members of the Alpha Theta Psi chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa honorary society. Drawing from Phi Theta Kappa’s commitment to serving campus communities, the local chapter’s officer team identified a need for additional community spaces on Lake Land’s campus. After preparing a proposal and speaking with the college’s administration for approval, the beautification project included working with the college’s grounds crew to clear out the overgrown weeds, build a walking path, create a water feature, build flower pots, install an umbrella and plant flowers.
PTK President Tashia Carter said in their planning they wanted to create a space for all students, staff and faculty to come together to socialize, do their homework, take a break from work or relax between classes. They also wanted to incorporate some fun in the area. Carter said, “We had to choose a theme for our Honors in Action project and we decided with Play It Forward. We will have a checkers table built by Andrew Fitzgerald, the welding instructor, to provide play within our project. Our area is to provide a place to dream, to conquer our creative minds and to remember play is part of a balanced life.”
Neal Hall Renovation
Students taking classes in Neal Hall this fall were greeted by a whole new décor and building updates. The modernization of Neal Hall included upgrades to the HVAC system, lighting, wall and floor finishes and new furnishings throughout. The modernized interiors create an environment where students can collaborate, study or comfortably engage with others; promoting active learning and innovative thinking.
Originally constructed in the year 2000, Neal Hall is a 46,282 square-foot building and houses nursing classrooms and simulation labs, 2-D and 3-D art studios, a biology lab and greenhouse, and several general education classrooms.
NEW WOMEN’S LOCKER ROOMS
Just around the corner, the Field House received an upgrade with the addition of two new women’s locker rooms, a designated cheer team room and updates to the men’s locker room. The newly constructed locker rooms provide dedicated restroom facilities for each area, along with Laker-branded lockers, seating and carpet. Each room is outfitted with state of-the-art lighting and audio-visual equipment to create a more comfortable and inspiring environment, boosting team morale and fostering a sense of pride.
