New Facility Helps College Keep Competitive
James A. Rhodes State College in Lima, Ohio, recently opened the doors to its new $5.3 million Information Technology facility. The 33,232-square-foot building is the signature architectural image on campus and will assure that the 34-year-old College continues to be a leader in an increasingly competitive technical education market.
Over the past 10 years, the largest demand for space and equipment resources at Rhodes State has been in the computer field. This rapid growth of technology-based classes prompted the need for the new space.
Opened to students in January 2005, the new building provides space for the College’s workforce training and development, information technology and information services programs, as well as new spaces for the President and faculty.
“We wanted a facility that had an academic feel, but was traditional in design and would incorporate state-of-the-art technology, while maintaining a comfortable place for student interaction,” said Dr. Earl Keese, President of Rhodes State College. “We feel that Burgess & Niple succeeded, and we are proud to share this building with our students and the community.”
Spaces within the new facility include: IT system rooms, conference rooms, training rooms, open computer labs, university classrooms, general purpose classrooms, student gathering space, workrooms, the President’s office, administrative and faculty offices, a board room, a faculty lounge and student teaming spaces.
The key to the building’s efficiency is the use of a “ghost corridor” which serves as a second entrance to each of the six technology classrooms. This concept was adapted from B&N experience in the design of high-tech research laboratories and provides secure access and storage without adding to the building’s gross floor area.
Other special features of the facility include a lobby designed to house special events, and the south lawn designed to accommodate informal gatherings in a natural outdoor setting.
Return to Newsletter
