March 11, 2013 (Jackson) - Construction workers are diligently working on Fitzhugh Hall to make the opening date in the fall. Fitzhugh changes a little everyday and the width of new wing has expanded to accommodate the growing School of Science and Mathematics.
Belhaven alumni, faculty, staff and students are all looking forward to the day when Fitzhugh is complete and they can stand in the new wing. David Potvin, Assistant VP for Campus Operations, said, “The substantial completion date for construction is set for July 31, 2013. During the first couple of weeks in August, we will continue outfitting all the science labs, classrooms and offices so that Fitzhugh Hall will be all set for the fall semester this year...it going to be wonderful!”
Last week, a roof was added to the east wing and in the next 30 days other major constructions milestones will include: completed steel handrails, wall framing on 2nd and 3rd floors, work on mechanical, electrical and plumbing on all of floors, started roofing work, exterior plywood sheathing and installation of windows.
Even though the $7 million project is near completion, Belhaven still needs $3 million to fully fund the work on Fitzhugh. Kevin Russell, Vice President for University Advancement, commented, “We have made tremendous progress towards raising $7 million for the renovation of Fitzhugh Hall into a "top notch" science building, but are still seeking to raise nearly $3 million to fully fund the project…so, it not too late to participate. As we ‘back-fill’ the fundraising for this emergency project, we welcome cash gifts as well as three-year pledges. Please call 601-968-5980 if you would like to help us reach our goal…every gift counts!”
While Fitzhugh’s east wing is getting a complete renovation from the ground up, the west wing is getting its own share of work and updates done. Potvin adds, “In the next few weeks, work will begin on the installation of new ceilings, electrical work, painting and some minor flooring work. We hope to start replacing the shingles on the west wing in the next week or so, which will of course, match the new roof on the east wing.”
A four-pipe system is being installed to the existing mechanical lines to match the new east wing. New fan coil units will also be installed in the west wing and the new mechanical room for the building will be located on the 1st floor of the west wing.
Keep up with the latest news and pictures of Belhaven’s new home of the School of Science and Mathematics on the Fitzhugh Hall Progress Blog.
Belhaven University stands among select Christian colleges and universities and has been repeatedly named one of “America’s 100 Best College Buys." The University offers 30 academic majors across a full spectrum of disciplines as well as a variety of graduate programs. In addition, Belhaven has achieved the distinction of being among only 30 universities nationally accredited in each of the major arts – music, theatre, visual art and dance. All programs are taught from a Christian worldview perspective and are guided by the mission to prepare students academically and spiritually to serve Christ Jesus in their careers, in human relationships, and in the world of ideas.
Belhaven University serves over 3,700 students offering undergraduate and graduate degrees on its residential campus, an online degree program, and graduate and adult degree programs in Jackson, Memphis, Orlando, Houston, Chattanooga, and Atlanta.