Friday, May 8, 2009

Coastal Carolina University board of trustees approves building plans, new degree programs

At its bimonthly meeting today the Coastal Carolina University board of trustees approved building projects estimated at more than $40 million.

The largest project is a proposed $35 million Student Convocation/Recreation Center that will house a student sports arena that can be used for campus events and convocations, such as graduation exercises. The University bookstore will be relocated to this facility.

Other new building projects include a baseball batting facility estimated at $1.2 million, a dining hall addition expected to cost $2 million, and a $4 million central cooling and heating plant.

“We are fortunate to be in a position to embark on these building projects in a time of general economic downturn,” said University President David A. DeCenzo.

The board also approved a lease-purchase agreement for the 5,500-square-foot Prudential Building on U.S. 501, which will be used for academic and administrative offices. The one-year lease is for $24,000, with the potential for future purchase.

Eight new academic programs were approved, including specialized degrees in theatre. Bachelor of Fine Arts programs in musical theatre, physical theatre, acting, and theatre design/technology were approved.

“These new academic degrees in theatre make our program unique in South Carolina and rare across the country,” said Bill Richardson, dean of the University’s Thomas W. and Robin W. Edwards College of Humanities and Fine Arts.

Also approved were Bachelor of Science degrees in information systems, biochemistry and in biology-medical technology, as well as a Master of Education degree in learning and technology. The new degree programs must be approved by the state Commission on Higher Education before being implemented.

The board approved tenure for Dianne Mark, who will assume the position of dean of the Spadoni College of Education on June 15.

The board also approved a discretionary budget for University President DeCenzo for 2009-2010.

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