Source: Dennis Kuhlman, 785-826-2601, dkuhlman@k-state.edu
News release prepared by: Natalie Blair, 785-826-2642, nblair@k-state.edu
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
K-STATE AT SALINA'S STUDENT LIFE CENTER WILL OPEN IN TIME FOR START OF CLASSES, RIBBON-CUTTING TO FOLLOW
SALINA -- Kansas State University at Salina's new $5.9 million Student Life Center is nearing completion and will be open in time for the beginning of the fall semester Aug. 24.
Construction on the 33,000 square-foot building began in spring 2008. It will be the home to the campus' recreational services and student life offerings. The new center will act as a hub for nearly all student-oriented services and will provide a place for students and members of the Salina community to meet, develop leadership skills, maintain physical health and promote academic achievement.
When completed, the center will include a basketball gymnasium, a running track, two racquetball courts, a cardiovascular area, free weights, an aerobic/fitness area and exercise equipment. In addition, the center will house administrative offices involved in student life and have a student lounge and computer station.
The need for the student center was identified more than 20 years ago -- before K-State at Salina even existed. In the mid-1980s the Kansas Technical Institute began to explore constructing a student hub on campus and developed a campus master plan. The master plan continued to grow and change when the institute merged with K-State in 1991. When Dennis Kuhlman was appointed dean of K-State at Salina in 1997, he advanced the discussion and began to actively pursue the project.
"This is more than just a building. The Student Life Center is a part of a vision enhancing the learning atmosphere for K-State at Salina students. It's a dream come true for many people, including me," Kuhlman said. "This project has been a priority for many years and we're excited to finally see it nearing completion. Our donors deserve a big 'thank you,' because without them we would still be in the dreaming stage."
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be Thursday, Sept. 10, with special activities for students Friday, Sept. 11. A public open house will be Saturday, Sept. 12.
The center is open to the public. K-State alumni and their families qualify for discounted rates to use center's recreational services component.
