At the University of Jamestown, exciting changes are underway. The renovation of Voorhees Chapel and the new Reuben and Clarice Liechty Center for Faith and Life is on track, according to Dustin Jensen, the vice president of student affairs. “We’re really happy with where it’s at,” he said, looking forward to student reactions.
This ambitious project is backed by a monumental $15 million donation from Jim and Candy Unruh, marking the largest gift in university history. The funds support the new School of Character in Leadership, which will be located beneath the chapel. Polly Peterson, the university president, expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized that the renovations aim to create a dynamic space for daily activities, not just occasional events.
Construction began in October 2023, with a dedication ceremony planned for September 26. The new center will connect the chapel to the Badal Nafus Center, which is currently being remodeled after fire damage earlier this year. Jensen mentioned that the new facilities will include a coffee shop called the Well Coffee Bar, designed to be a welcoming hangout for students.
The Unruh School aims to foster leadership through its Character in Leadership program, focusing on six core virtues: wisdom, integrity, service, excellence, courage, and humility. Paul Olson, the university’s executive vice president, discussed plans to integrate these values across all university programs over the next few years.
The Garden Terrace, another feature of the renovations, is designed as a vibrant gathering space that combines a lively atmosphere with academic activities. Jensen highlighted that the goal for the renovated chapel is to preserve its historical significance while modernizing its amenities. For instance, the chapel pews are being replaced with chairs, but the beloved stained glass windows are being meticulously restored, ensuring they retain their original charm.
Interestingly, renovations extend beyond these buildings. The university plans to enhance its landscape, replacing trees lost due to severe weather and disease. Jensen noted that around 52 trees would be removed, but new plantings and floral arrangements are on the way, creating a more inviting campus environment.
In addition to local changes, the university is also making strides in Phoenix, where it is developing a unique biomedical education hub. This new center will train pathologist assistants, a career path that offers opportunities in lab sciences without frequent patient interaction. Olson highlighted that this program is among the first in the nation to integrate artificial intelligence into lab settings, preparing students for cutting-edge roles in the medical field.
Public interest in these developments has been strong, with social media buzzing about the future of UJ. The enthusiasm reflects a shared vision of fostering character and leadership, vital for student success in today’s challenging landscape. With these transformations, the University of Jamestown is positioning itself for a bright future, cultivating the leaders of tomorrow.
Source link
jamestown north dakota,stutsman county north dakota
