Photo courtesy of Siena Heights University
The new year marks big changes for Siena Heights University. With infrastructure improvements and new programs, the university is gearing up for significant upgrades. Changes include a new performing arts center, renovations to the existing Francoeur Theater, a partnership with the the University of North Dakota to grow an engineering program, and an agreement with Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the new performing arts center was held earlier this month. The project is expected to cost between $11.2 and $11.5 million and will serve as the main location for theater productions. “This is a great opportunity for our performing arts students” explains Mitch Blonde, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Siena Heights University. Renovations to the existing Francoeur Theater will better accommodate the music department with a grand music hall and marching band room. The facilities are scheduled to be up and running for the 2018 academic year.
Students are able to receive a math or science degree from Siena Heights and an engineering degree from the University of North Dakota thanks to a recent partnership between the two institutions. There are approximately 40 students currently enrolled in the program. A Siena Heights branch has been added to Kalamazoo Valley Community College to open even more opportunities to students in the Kalamazoo area.
Photo courtesy of Siena Heights University
The school is also reinventing the Career Services center. The greater focus is to increase engagement with students, local businesses, and alumni while making the location more accessible on campus. “With these changes, we hope that more of our students will be hired locally and stay in the area after graduation,” explains Siena Heights University President, Sister Peg Albert.
Plans have been made for upgrades to the women’s softball field which include a new outfield wall, improved bull pen and irrigation system, as well as new lighting and seats. Siena Heights invites the community to use the baseball and softball facilities.
For more details on the exciting changes happening at Siena Heights University, please visit The Daily Telegram.