Jersey City, N.J. – September 26, 2013 – Saint Peter’s University today announced that construction has commenced on significant upgrades to the academic facilities for the institution’s School of Business and School of Education. This School of Business construction project was made possible due to funds from the Building Our Future Bond Act, which was passed on November 6, 2012. The Building Our Future Bond Act authorized $750 million in State bonds to be used to provide New Jersey’s higher education institutions with a much-needed capital investment. The School of Education project is being funded through the University. Philanthropy is also being sought for both projects.
“We are looking forward to the completion of this exciting project, which will bring new life to our West Campus and will provide state-of-the-art facilities for learning and teaching here at Saint Peter’s,” said Eugene J. Cornacchia, Ph.D., president of Saint Peter’s University. “Capital improvements to our colleges and universities are necessary to attract students and keep them here in the Garden State. We are extremely pleased that these projects are becoming a reality for the University.”
The Hudson Room, a former space for student dining located in Dinneen Hall, is currently being renovated to become the new home of the School of Business. The plans for the School of Business project include two super-smart interactive learning halls with video conferencing capability, one of which will serve as a virtual trading room. The space will also offer technology-enhanced project and seminar rooms and student/faculty research space. The exterior of the building will feature interactive digital displays with current financial market information, as well as an open learning forum with stepped seating for outdoor lectures, seminars, symposia and student gathering and interaction space.
Given the growth and interest in the University’s School of Education, especially the Saint Peter’s doctor of education (Ed. D.) program with concentrations in educational leadership and higher education, an investment has also been designated to the ongoing education of New Jersey’s current and future teachers and school administrators. The first and second floors of Dinneen Hall are being converted to the new home of the School of Education. The renovation for the School of Education includes a Center for Collaborative Learning with a Learning Commons, a Curriculum Resource/Media Center, technology-enhanced project and seminar rooms and student/faculty research space.
Included in the renovations will be a new ADA compliant elevator providing access to all floors in Dinneen Hall. All students, regardless of their majors and academic level will utilize this new learning facility. The project is expected to be completed by May 2014.
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Saint Peter’s University, inspired by its Jesuit, Catholic identity, commitment to individual attention and grounding in the liberal arts, educates a diverse community of learners in undergraduate, graduate and professional programs to excel intellectually, lead ethically, serve compassionately and promote justice in our ever-changing urban and global environment.
Media Contact
Angeline Boyer
aboyer1@saintpeters.edu
(201) 761-6238