Serving students — with style

Personnel from Student Services had a chance to show off their new remodeled and centralized office space to more than 60 people at an open house Friday, Feb. 8. Visitors commented on the "professional" appearance saying it was a "dramatic change" and "long-overdue improvement." The remodel was driven by a complete redesign of services — moving from a "compartmentalized" model to a single-service (one-stop shop) center concept, while positioning for the Growth Agenda. (Photos by student intern Matt Robinson.)

The new lobby area is a welcoming atmosphere for prospective students. An electronic sign greets visitors by name, gives a viewbook perspective on campus, and tosses out a little campus trivia, as well. Current students enjoy the sunny hallway lounges and wireless access.

Why the cigar? Mike Herrity (Registrar) and Sandra Deadman (Academic Advising) present project coordinator Mike Stearney with a cigar. "They said bringing the project to conclusion was like the birth of a baby, hence the cigar," explains Stearney.

Staff members show their appreciation for Stearney's direction. Completing the 20,000 square foot remodel was no small task. The project total was $1.6 million for construction, design and project management fees. Energy savings also figured prominently into the new design including motion sensors, low energy light ballasts throughout and a new energy-efficient HVAC system.

Stearney says employees have adjusted well to the new space. Some initial concerns about noise have subsided as time goes by. And staff is enjoying a new breakroom with opportunities to mingle at lunchtime with peers from other offices.

Trudy Jacobsen from Adult Degree, faculty member Bill Laatsch and Mike Herrity spend some time looking around.

One can only wonder what Ron Morris (Admissions) is saying to make Elaina Koltz (Registrar) and Aubrey Schramm (Adult Degree Programs) smile in the front lobby area.

Joan Keberlein (Public Safety) gets the lowdown at the new visitor welcome desk.

Pam Suster (Career Services) shows us what the new remodel looks like from the inside out.

A relief sculpture by Two Rivers artist Randy Detjen, serves as the backdrop of the Student Services welcome desk. The Cofrin Library was selected for the piece because it is the architectural centerpiece of our campus and fundamental to college learning. (Sculpture photo by Eric Miller.)