It’s no secret that ENC could use some serious renovations, and while recent renovations have been happening around campus, there is still more to be done.
ENC has already taken steps toward renovation in Gardner and Shrader buildings, with classrooms and facility upgrades and remodeling. It is great that two main academic buildings have been updated, but now it is time to update the locations where students spend the majority of their time when they are not in the classroom.
Regarding the questions of further renovations on campus, Jeff Kirksey said that “We are actually looking at plans for enhancements to all of the large common lounge spaces as part of the scope for work and witness teams that are being planned for this summer.” Kirksey also mentioned the possibilities of working with the Church of the Nazarene’s skilled labor teams from churches throughout the eastern part of the U.S. to assist with the possible renovations.
Areas that are still in the early stages of renovation brainstorming include: residence halls, dorm rooms, bathrooms, floor lounges, Spange Parlor, the Underground (Memorial), Munro Parlor, and the Fish Bowl (commuter lounge).
To make all of these ideas happen, a lot of work and research will need to be done regard questions of cost, labor, design, etc. Plans to start the long process are expected to start in the spring semester, and Kirksey emphasized that student input is wanted and needed, even before moving forward.
Apart from the Student Development Office’s renovation plans, the Class of 2018 has been discussing the idea of doing their own remodeling project as their senior class gift.
Every year, each senior class gives a gift back to ENC as a thank you. In the past, most classes have given a scholarship or have done small remodeling jobs on campus, such as planting trees or adding benches. The class of 2018 has been considering, among other things, the possibility of renovating the Underground, but the logistics of the decision are still being discussed.