CORVALLIS, Ore. - Oregon State University will celebrate this Tuesday, April 17, the completed renovation of one of the campus' oldest buildings, which serves as the home for the College of Education.

A brief ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. on the fourth floor of the former Education Hall, renamed Joyce Collin Furman Hall, at the intersection of 15th Street and Jefferson Street. The event is open to the public.

An extensive renovation coupled with seismic upgrades to the iconic structure at the campus' east entrance blends historic charm with high-tech touches. The newly refurbished building, originally constructed in 1902, coincides with the college's new direction, with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education, and cultural and linguistic diversity.

A gift from the Joyce N. Furman Memorial Trust combined with additional private support, state funding and university funds made the interior and exterior renovation possible. Furman graduated from OSU in 1965 with a bachelor's degree in math education and was a longtime supporter of the university.

Furman, who died in 2009, was a passionate advocate for education and for children. She maintained a strong connection to her alma mater and served on the steering committee for The Campaign for OSU.

The $3.5 million in private support from more than 80 donors is part of The Campaign for OSU, the university's first comprehensive fundraising initiative. Guided by OSU's strategic plan, the campaign seeks $1 billion to provide opportunities for students, strengthen the Oregon economy and conduct research that changes the world. More than $800 million has been committed to date.

 

Source: 

Michelle Williams, 541-737-6126

 

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