The speakers at Shawnee State University’s Fall 2024Convocation on Sept. 12 shared lots of plans for the future. These plans included renovations as well as new projects and services.
“The strategic planning that we’re going to do … is going to involve [all three] colleges, student life, athletics and [take] a thoughtful look where we’re engaging from the ground up,” said Shawnee State University’s President Eric Braun.
The major planning phase for the renovation of the Clark Memorial Library is scheduled to begin this fall. Renovations for the bookstore and the Appleton Overlook Lounge are also in the early stages of discussion.
Students can also look out for the reopening of 3rd Street. The street between the dorms and the university was closed in 2013 and is expected to be open to traffic once again by the end of this year.
Although no dates or specifics have been offered yet, there will be an increase in after-hours food services.
In spring of 2025, onsite planning for the Spartan Stadium will begin. The 28 ½-acre site, which was gifted to the university, will sport a new softball field.
Along with these plans comes the initiative to further student education and experience. Braun stated that the goal is to have each student graduate with experience in their field of study through internships or work experience through campus jobs.
Braun also stated that “enrollment isn’t the end all be all” in terms of the university’s goals. Instead, he looks to make Shawnee and the surrounding area a healthier community while prioritizing quality over quantity.
Next year, the second annual Fall Convocation will feature a committee to kick off the start of the semester to once again welcome new and returning students and staff. More discussions will be held about future and current projects along with financial updates about the university.
For more information about future projects at Shawnee, click here.
