RHODES OPEN HOUSE RESCHEDULED
The new date will be posted here when confirmed.
Clark State College will host an Open House for Rhodes Hall on their Springfield campus, 570 E. Leffel Lane, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 17. All community members are invited to arrive by 3:45 p.m. for remarks from key speakers including Mike Duffey, Chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, and Ohio Senator Bob Hackett. Building tours will begin at 4 p.m. and light refreshments will be served. RSVP is encouraged, but not required.
The Rhodes Hall Open House celebrates the completion of a comprehensive $17 million, 10-year renovation project that revitalized Rhodes Hall, the first building on the Clark State College Springfield campus. Originally constructed in 1968, the building was designed by architect John Kline and named in honor of James A. Rhodes, Ohio governor. Today, Rhodes Hall plays an essential role in the education of Clark State students as it houses the majority of general education courses, transfer programs and the Student Academic Support Center.
“This investment positively impacts the educational experience of Clark State’s students by providing academic areas that better support student collaboration, inclusivity, learning and success,” said Doug Schantz, executive vice president of finance, facilities and operations. “We addressed critical needs to move the college forward, accommodating both current and future students.”
Started in 2014, the more than 71,000 square feet renovation was executed in multiple phases, enhancing the infrastructure and overall functionality of the building. The first phases focused on the creation of the SASC and included upgrades to the mechanical, electrical, HVAC and plumbing systems, in addition to providing a new roof. Subsequent phases of renovation enhanced the student and faculty learning environment by modernizing classrooms, restrooms, hallways, student gathering spaces and offices on the second- and third-floor. The final phase renovated Clark State’s geology, chemistry, biology and physics labs, as well as the exterior of the building which included new windows and a student plaza.
“Everything we do at Clark State is for students and this renovation project has truly transformed our educational spaces, academic offerings and campus as a whole” said Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., president. “We offer students state-of-the art labs across our campus, as well as spaces where they can collaborate, recharge and interact in ways that truly bring life and joy to our college. We are very excited to share these spaces with our community during our Open House.”
Following this successful renovation of Rhodes Hall, Clark State is shifting its attention to improvements at the Applied Science Center that will further enhance the educational environment for students, faculty and staff.