Unveiling the new College Hall re-dedication plaque. Pictured (from left) Trustee Chairman Michael D’Aniello, SGA President Abu Chowdhury, Commissioner Vice Chair Leslie Richards, Commissioner Chair Josh Shapiro, Commissioner Bruce Castor, State Senator John C. Rafferty, Trustee Geoff Brandon, President Dr. Karen A. Stout, Trustee Susan Arnhold, Former Trustee Chairman Mike Bitner, and Executive Director of Enrollment Services Cindy Haney. Photo by Sandi Yanisko
College Hall is Re-Dedicated After Phased Renovationsby Alana J. Mauger '97 On Oct. 4, State and County officials joined College Trustees, President, faculty, staff and students to re-dedicate College Hall at Montgomery County Community College’s Central Campus in Blue Bell. The building’s redesign and new features provide a more cohesive, unified delivery of services for students. Key areas include: Student Success Center — Advising, Counseling, Career Services, Testing, Veterans Affairs, Disability Services Center Enrollment Services — Integrated, one-stop services to assist student with admissions, registration and financial Aid Brendlinger Library — College Archives, Tutorial Services, Grant Center, Computer Laboratories Student Leadership and Involvement — Student clubs and organizations, student recreation areas Administrative Offices — Human Resources, Finance and Administration, Public Safety, Health and Wellness Tutorial Services — formerly the Learning Assistance Lab, this new and improved space provides free customized academic assistance based on their learning styles. The recent renovations include high tech meeting rooms with smart technology. The new, modernized library includes a Presidential Library Reading Room, an internet café, a children’s reading space and housing for the Betzwood Silent Film special collection. The 125,313 square foot-facility is designed in alignment with the College’s Sustainability Initiative. Renewable materials were used throughout the project, and 100% of demolished materials were recycled. In addition, controlled lighting, water reduction, and other energy efficiencies were implanted to reduce the building’s carbon footprint. The College plans to seek LEED certification for the facility in the near future. The $24.8 million renovation project designed by the architectural firm of Fletcher Thompson was funded through a combination of public support from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the County of Montgomery. View the video of the re-dedication ceremony. |
   Photos by Sandi Yanisko |
West Campus Introduces Public Safety Segway Patrol
 Director of Campus Safety Joseph McGuriman demonstrates how easily a Segway can maneuver tight spaces. Photo by Sandi Yanisko |
In August 2012, Montgomery County Community College launched a Public Safety Segway Patrol program at its West Campus in Pottstown — the latest addition to its sustainable transportation efforts. A Segway allows officers to negotiate tight spaces at West Campus and enables them to travel more quickly than on foot. It also reduces reliance on the public safety vehicle, reducing emissions and increasing officer visibility on campus. When charging, the Segway has 14 times less greenhouse gas emissions than driving a car, and zero emissions when in use, saving an estimated ton of CO2 per year from being released into the atmosphere. The Segway program is part of the College’s Sustainability Initiative. Other transportation initiatives include a new green parking lot for energy-efficient vehicles and carpoolers; daily transportation shuttle between Central and West campuses; Zimride carpooling program; hybrid vehicles and bicycles for Central Campus public safety officers; electric utility cars for facilities; and public transportation efficiencies in coordination with SEPTA. To learn more about MCCC’s Sustainability Initiative, visit mc3green.wordpress.com. Watch a video from the launch event! |
