The second phase of the Stockwell library renovation is not likely to start before December 2013 and it is part of a 20-year-plan to re-model campus facilities. Phase two will cost $6.15 million and $2.55 million has been raised in the past year after the Board of Trustees approved the fundraising. Recently, the Weatherwax Foundation donated $250,000 to help fund that project.
“We’ve had a long-standing relationship with the Weatherwax Foundation, and they’ve provided support for the College for over 20 years,” said Donna Randall, president of Albion College. “So when we decided that we were going to fundraise for the library project, they were one of the first foundations that we approached.”
The College is relying on funds given by Michigan foundations, alumni and trustees. The Weatherwax Foundation has donated to the faculty development, the music department and the Science Complex.
“One of the reasons to specifically approach the Weatherwax Foundation [is that] they believe in supporting Michigan projects and they also have an interest in supporting higher education projects, and that’s why we fit fairly well,” Randall said.
MCF, an architectural firm, has been working with the College for 20 years. Randall hopes that phase two will provide a 21st century learning center, but also will keep the tradition of Albion College’s architecture and history.
“The outside is going to reflect the past [and] the traditions of Albion,” Randall said. “Then, when you go into the library itself, all of a sudden it’s the library of the future. We’re 178-years-old, but, on the other hand, we’re preparing students for their future.”
After the new additions of phase one to the library, students are looking forward to the finished project.
“I think it will be a more studious environment,” said Kelsey Miller, Alma sophomore. “I can’t wait to study for exams in the new building.”
Photo provided by Megan Sheridan
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