“On behalf of Facilities Management, I am happy to make the following report to the Stetson University community on the many improvements made to our campus over the holiday break,” said Al Allen, associate vice president for facilities management. “During the time when the university was closed in December, and into the new semester, we have made improvements to the campus, addressing several facility renewal and replacement projects, which are itemized in the following report.”

Improvements:

HatRack

The dining area in the HatRack has been improved with new ceiling treatment, new lighting, removal of the stage, relocation of the flat screen TVs, improvement in the speaker systems of the TVs, additional trim, changes to the air-conditioning supply, and painting of the ceiling, walls and trim.

The Einstein’s at the HatRack was renovated to enhance customer service and provide the Dining Services staff with additional work space to better serve customers. Additionally, new refrigeration and heating equipment, display cases, menu boards and point of sale equipment were purchased and installed.

Bicycle Parking

“We are delighted with the increased use of bicycles on campus,” said Allen. “Additional bike racks will support SGA’s effort to increase the use of bicycles on campus.” SGA is purchasing additional bicycles for use by the campus community. Bike parking racks (pictured in a photo by Stacie Walker) were added to the area south of the CUB/Coffee Shop. The cement pad formerly in this area was removed and replaced over the break. Additional bicycle parking racks were also added at Chaudoin Hall.

Kitchen

New ice machines, flame broilers, hot food cabinets, fryers, grills, ovens, skillets, etc., have been installed allowing the Dining Service staff to provide great food service. “The kitchen exhaust system, dishwasher and air-conditioning systems have been improved to provide our Dining Services staff and chefs with more comfortable and effective areas to prepare our meals,” Allen reported.

Sage Hall

The air handling unit on the northeast side of Sage Hall was replaced over the break. “The old air handler served us very well for many years,” Allen said. “However the pans on the bottom of the unit that hold the water caused by condensation, were worn out. As a result, the water would find its way into the Physics Classroom 213 Sage Hall. The replacement of this unit will improve the conditions in this classroom for our faculty and students. The staff of Facilities Management thanks the faculty and staff in both Sage Hall and the CUB for suffering through some cold and difficult days while these projects were taking place. We appreciate your support and understanding.”

Lockers

Lockers will be installed in CUB 205 for students who commute to campus. This is an SGA initiative supported by Facilities Management.

Energy Conservation

“We want to thank our students for reducing our energy consumption and emissions of CO2 by reducing “plug load” while they were away over break,” said Allen. “The students did an excellent job of  unplugging appliances, stereos, televisions, printers, etc., before leaving for break. This is our third year asking students to support our efforts to conserve energy through managing “plug load.” The results have improved every year.”

Climate Action Plan

“Our Board of Trustees formally adopted our Climate Action Plan at the Board meeting in October 2013,” Allen reported. “Our Climate Action Plan includes our goals to reduce our emissions of CO2, the steps we will take to reduce consumption and our commitment to share information about climate change and how we can all contribute to a cleaner, cooler planet. Our Climate Action Plan has been submitted and accepted by Second Nature, the organization that supports the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment.”

Sorority and Honor Houses

Electronic access with proximity readers will be installed during the spring semester. Facilities Management and Housing and Residential Life will communicate with the residents prior to the electronic access being installed.

Bathrooms in Emily and Chaudoin Halls

Renovations of the bathrooms on the center and north wings of Emily Hall and the north wing of Chaudoin Hall are scheduled for the summer of 2014.

“Again, I extend the gratitude of the entire Facilities Management staff to Stetson students, faculty and staff for your patience and understanding as we address several facility renewal and replacement projects,” Allen said. “Best wishes for a stimulating, fun and safe spring semester 2014.”