Trustees approve SMC renovations
By MOLLY McVOY
News Writer
The Saint Mary's Board of Trustees approved plans for renovations to Dalloways Coffeehouse, the Welcome Center and Regina Hall at last weekend's meeting.
"I'm very excited about the prospect of moving forward [with Dalloways]," said Keith Dennis, vice president of Finance and Administration.
The board approved using money from the College's Plant fund to finance Regina renovations. The fund was begun years ago, and money has been put aside for building renovations and improvements.
As part of the approval of the Dalloways Coffeehouse, the board said the proposed cost of $600,000 must decrease before construction will begin. The College could not release the amount suggested by board members.
Dennis explained that although it is a significant amount, the College has already begun discussions with Ziolkowski Construction about how to lower the figure.
"I think we'll have it nailed down by the end of the week," Dennis said. "When we get it down to a reasonable budget, the board has authorized us to go ahead."
The Welcome Center was approved as presented.
A student panel also addressed the board about student life. Board members asked questions of current students.
"[The board] was really open-minded," said Penelope Kistka, a senior and member of the panel. "You go to school here so long and get so involved, but you never get to meet the people who are behind the scenes."
The student panel discussed positive and negative aspects of life at Saint Mary's. It covered improvements in technology and the athletic program. Members also discussed the need for more meal plan options, a big sister/big brother program and more job fairs on campus.
"We walked out of there with a very good feeling," senior class president Anne Pangilinan said. "We thought the board was very attentive. They took us very seriously."
Eldred was very pleased with the outcome of the student group as well.
"It really turned out to be a dialogue between the students and the board," she said.
The board also was presented with a preliminary budget for next year as well as information about how the changing costs of a Saint Mary's education will affect the school next year.
All News Stories for Tuesday, February 22, 2000
