2019-2020 President's Annual Report

Inst i tut ional Highl ights

Campus Building/Renovation Updates: Ther e have been aggr essive effor ts to update select ar eas of the

campus for the purpose of creating greater accessibility to accommodations. The primary focus has been on select

facilities that include: the Moody Science Building; the Gus F. Taylor Gymnasium; and the D.R. Glass Library.

Moody Science Building: With the Moody Science Building (MSB), renovations have been made to the existing

restrooms, making them ADA accessible, while also improving the aesthetic appearance. The upgraded initiatives

have also included building a new family restroom on the second floor; and improving accessibility (to the second

floor) with a restored elevator lift . Further upgrades included adding new roofing, replacing five conditioners; and

adding new drainage systems (to the interior and exterior). The outdoor areas surrounding the MSB now need a

topographical survey, to establish if any work under the surface that may be needed.

Gus F. Taylor Gymnasium: The Gus F. Taylor Gymnasium has also experienced aesthetic and functional

upgrades. The upgrades began with minor modifications to the downstairs areas, to make them for functional for

student-athletes. Additionally, repairs and aesthetic supports have been made to the gym’s roof with sealing and

repointing areas along with repainting it. And, the building tie-ins have also been sealed. The next proposed

upgrade will be to upgrade the restrooms.

D.R. Glass Library: The D. R. Glass Library may be considered the “heart” of the academic center for it

provides the necessary academic supports to students and faculty in the teaching-learning process. The Library is

also registered as a historic site; therefore, its preservation is of essential need. However, as an historic site, a

survey of the facility shows it is in primary need of roofing replacement; upgraded wiring; and elevator access.

Notwithstanding, select repairs have begun that include flooring repairs. To address the magnitude of the

aforementioned needs a library grant has been applied for in the amount of $500,000 and approximately $250,000

has been set aside from a currently funded grant to begin the initial work. A topographical survey is also needed to

assess the external foundational structure of this facility.

23 2019- 2020 Pres i dent ’ s Annual Report