April 20, 2007
New Buildings and New Programs at OCCC
Oklahoma City Community College is breaking new ground and expanding its 35 year old campus to include three new buildings and new programs.
Classes are underway this week in the brand new $10 million addition to OCCC's main building. The Robert P. Todd Science, Engineering and Math (SEM) Center, named for the late president of Oklahoma City Community College, was built by the students of OCCC by raising bond funds repaid through student fees. The facility provides new classrooms and labs to support students studying math and science. It includes a world-class botany classroom and greenhouse.
"At 65,500 square feet, employees and students already notice the major boost in space for the departments," says Dr. Paul Sechrist, OCCC President. "OCCC is moving forward and building the infrastructure to empower our current and future students to achieve a college education of the highest quality and value."
Two other major buildings are now under construction. They are the Health Professions Education Center and the Arts Education Center. These buildings have a combined cost of $15 million. They are being paid for by the state of Oklahoma as the result of a state-wide bond issue approved by voters to support at least one project on every state college or university campus in Oklahoma.
The new buildings are scheduled for completion next spring and should be ready for the summer semester of 2008.
"The Health Professions Center is being added to the campus with the needs of the community in mind," Sechrist said. "We align with the economic priorities in workforce needs in greater Oklahoma City. We need more allied health professionals to fill positions at the major hospitals and clinics."
The new facility allows for the expansion of programs in emergency medical sciences, registered nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy.
The 50,000 square foot Arts Education Center is designed to add classrooms, labs and studios for art instruction, music, photography, and visual arts; as well as a film and video production studio. Plans also include an expansion of a new performing arts center.
"As the fifth largest college in the state, these new buildings and programs allow us to continue to offer innovative programs and opportunities all while focusing on each individual student and ensuring their success," Sechrist added.
For comments on the News Release contact:
Cordell Jordan
Media Relations Coordinator
Marketing and Public Relations
Oklahoma City Community College | 7777 South May Avenue | Oklahoma City, OK 73159-4444 | 405-682-1611
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