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GROUNDBREAKING NEWS
A Family Room for Students:
University Commons will Enhance Campus Life
On Saturday, May 19, Bethel kicked off construction of its new University Commons. The groundbreaking, on a beautiful, calm afternoon, included many students dressed in formal attire for the All-School Spring Banquet later that evening. It was fitting that students be part of the festivities: when completed in spring 2009, University Commons will be their space, a wonderful “family room” on campus.
As the big moment arrived, the crowd’s excitement was palpable when Bethel President George Brushaber, Student Body President Tim Hammer, and other representatives took up gold shovels and broke the first sod for the $30 million, 110,000-square-foot facility. Student leaders then took the controls of a front-end loader and, guided by the construction crew, removed larger chunks of earth.
“As we are ever becoming whole and holy people, the University Commons will provide places for personal and corporate devotion and reflection, places for relationships to thrive, and places for bodies and minds to relax as well,” said Vice President for Student Life Judy Moseman. “The commons will, we believe, become the hub and the pulse of community life at Bethel and will offer a continuing invitation to each of us to tend to our relationships, tend to our minds, and tend to our souls.”
The University Commons will include an expanded Dining Center and retail dining establishment; a larger Campus Store; a multipurpose social event venue; several large lounge areas; headquarters for student organizations; a centralized student life office; and meeting rooms and conversation spaces.
Construction of University Commons can now be viewed on Bethel’s website, via a web cam!
Taking the Next Step Campaign Update
Taking the Next Step is a campaign to directly improve the quality of a Bethel education for every student, while also ensuring Bethel’s future. Extending from 2002-2008, it includes gifts to the Annual Fund, facilities, and endowment.
Goal: $105 million
Progress to Date: $80 million