University of Central Oklahoma
THURSDAY June 16, 1994
The Student Voice Since 1903
Campus remodeling projects under way David L Hanigar Student Writer
"A bunch of mud and a hill," is how University of Central Oklahoma student Sally Baker described the large hole southwest of the Broncho Fieldhouse. The hole, soon to become an Olympicsize soccer field, is one example of the many projects involved in the multi-million dollar remodeling of the university. Along with the upheaval and relocation of many of the campus parking lots, construction across the university is in preparation for the addition of several buildings, renovations of existing buildings and overall modernization of the UCO campus grounds and facilities. "We're changing the function of, and the appearance of the campus in preparation for future growth," Nick Widener, executive director of special projects said. "We're trying to build something that will carry us into the year 2001." A new 40,000 square-foot education building is one of the newest renovations projects. It will contain a multi-media seminar room capable of receiving satellite transmissions that will accommodate the advances in talk-back television, Widener said. The project should take about 15 months to build. Secondly, a 60,000 square-foot laboratory building adjoined with the south wall of Howell Hall. They will be connected by a glass atrium with all floors connected by elevated glass walkways. "You won't know when you leave from one building and enter into the next. It will all be closed in," Widener said. Howell Hall will also be completely renovated. These two projects will cost an estimated $7.7 million. The Max Chamber's Library will receive $8 million worth of renovations and additions that will add 80,000 square-feet of computer lab and stackable space. A four-story grand staircase will access each floor, and open areas between the floors will be closed in, said Widener. The addition of The Nigh Institute and Government Outreach Center along with the Boren Archival Library (which will
house the territorial papers for the state) are a part of the $15 million in construction costs for the renovation of the University Center. "The archival library will be the one place in the state that exists with that (territorial papers) information," Widener said, "So anyone in the state, that needs that research will have to come here." Other additions include a new bookstore, two 500-seat auditoriums, an oval shaped dining room with rooftop seating, a glass elevator overlooking the campus and a foodcourt which will house restaurants like Burger King and Pizza Hut. The Communications Building and Annex will also be joined. A 100-seat classroom with modern technology and projectors that lower from the ceiling exist in those plans, Widener said. Mitchell hall will acquire a scene shop, renovation of the building and new industrial technology. Other projects include the construction of an amphitheater beside Thatcher Lake, the joining of the business buildings with elevators meeting American Disability Act guidelines and new roofing. Widener said even the landscaping will become something the students will enjoy with new lighting, 20-foot sidewalks, new trees, native grasses such as Blue Stem and Love Grass, and areas students can convene in. "I think that we all will be proud of it when it is finished," Widener said, "It may cause some difficulty getting around in short-term, but I think in the long-term, we'll be proud of the end-result."
Indian grass dancer, Lakota Clairmont, competes in the Grass Dance competition at the Red Earth Festival. The festival was held June 11-13 at the Myriad. (Photo by Christopher Smith)
3 UCO students chosen for Shakespeare play By Mike Erwin Student Writer Three University of Central Oklahoma students overcame stiff competition to win roles in the Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park production of "Antony and
Cleopatra." The performances begin at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays June 16-July 10 at Hafer Park, Southeast Ninth and Bryant.
The students, J. Matthew Wullenwaber, Alison Crane and Kit Corff will portray Octavius Caesar, Iras and a soldier. "We're really pleased with our students from UCO. There's a lot of good talent at the school," said Kathryn O'Meara, artistic director of Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park. The actors were selected for their loud voices, sense of text and ability to communicate, O'Meara said.
"Antony and Cleopatra" is the tragic love story of Antony's fascination with Cleopatra, and his resulting downfall. The upcoming schedule will include "Cyrano de Bergerac," July 14 Aug. 7 and "The Tempest," Aug. 11-Sept. 4. Tickets are $5 for adults, and $4 for students and senior citizens. Admission is free for children 12 and under. For more information, contact Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park at 340-1222.
INSIDE TODAY Editorial 2 Letters 2 World Wrap 6 Around Campus 11 Comics 11
Lab UCO's Writing Enhancement Lab helps students master writing and communication skills.
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Award Dr. Rick Sullivan 7 is awarded by the National Vocation Industrial Clubs of America.
Baseball UCO's Kaleb Schroeder is named to the 1994 GTE Academic All-America College Division Baseball Team.
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