New and returning students might not recognize parts of the Trinity Western University campus when they arrive this fall.
A number of campus improvements are underway this summer at TWU, with a focus on campus sustainability, and adding infrastructure. “Several projects on campus are coming to completion at the same time,” said Associate Provost Sheldon Loeppky, who is overseeing the improvements, “The rejuvenation of some of TWU’s historic buildings not only increases their functionality, useful life, and safety features, but also adds to an overall enhanced curb appeal.”
Phase Two of construction is in progress on the Robert N. Thompson and Stanley Nelson Centre buildings. While the $2.1 million Phase One included the addition of the atrium and lobby, as well as seismic, fire suppression, and foundational upgrades, Phase Two includes faculty office renovations (some 20 percent of faculty have offices in RNT/SNC), hallway realignments, and an envelope upgrade among other improvements. The $2.5 million Phase Two is scheduled for completion in November.
Perhaps the most ambitious of the projects, the Enarson Gym will receive an addition at the front of the building. The addition will more than double the existing fitness facilities, giving students access to the enhanced facilities while still accommodating Human Kinetics classes.
The expanded lobby will include additional washrooms as well as an elevator to the new second floor—a large, open room with a rubberized floor that will accommodate group fitness programs, activity courses, and special events.
This year, the 2014 graduating class participated in a new initiative to provide a lasting gift to their alma mater. The Senior Gift 2014 funding will be used to revamp the Alloway Library’s main floor back study room, which overlooks McMillan Lake. The upgrades include new art, new paint, and new furniture, with the goal of creating a space that encourages a harmonious and studious atmosphere.
Other upgrades include the Reimer Student Centre Media Wall at the entrance to the cafeteria, which will showcase student-generated content on three 50” Samsung flat screens, sprucing up the Norma Marion Alloway Library gardens and the Douglas Centre exterior and interior, as well as renovations in several of the residence halls—Douglas Centre, Robson Hall, McMillan, and Northwest.
“The quality of the physical facilities, coupled with the natural environment of the campus contributes to the overall transformational educational experience that is TWU,” said Loeppky. “We are pleased to be making these important investments for our students.”
In Richmond, where for over a year TWU has been offering courses in anticipation of a permanent space, plans continue to move ahead for TWU Richmond.
In all, over $9 million of funding toward these improvement projects has been secured through private and corporate donations, a generous estate gift, and, in the case of the Enarson Gym project, student recreation fees.