GSU Begins $22 Million Science Renovation Project - Continued

GSU President Elaine P. Maimon and members of the Board of Trustees symbolically “tore down the walls” of the university’s E and F science wing by removing paneling from the walls. They were joined by more than 150 students, university employees, community members, and “Today, we tear down the walls of the 20^th century and construct state of the art science labs appropriate to this model 21^st century university and, most appropriate, worthy of our students,” Dr. Maimon said. 

State Senator Toi Hutchison (D-Olympia Fields) told Tuesday’s audience that effective government is the art of the possible, and can lead to “righteous projects” like the renovation of the university’s science buildings. 

“Illinois needed a capital bill and needed to invest in those things that we share in common,” Hutchison said. “When we make investments like this, it’s not just good for the Southland. It means that GSU can make a bigger contribution to this state.” 

Julie Smith, Quinn’s deputy chief of staff, said GSU officials are exceptional advocates for the university and the Chicago Southland, and that they showed their effectiveness in winning support for the science building renovation. 

“Governor Quinn likes to say that one side of society has movers and shakers and the other side is moved and shaken. Education is the difference between the two sides,” Smith said. “I know this project will lead to many more of your students becoming movers and shakers.” 

The area to be renovated comprises approximately 76,000 square feet of space. The new space will include six research labs, 11 teaching labs, 12 classrooms, nine prep/store rooms, and a new lecture hall that seats 90 students. 

The renovated facilities will serve students and faculty in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, nursing, communications disorders, occupational therapy, and physical therapy.