By Jordan Beach
Reinhardt University’s facilities team works hard every summer to ensure the campus is looking and functioning at its best before students return. This summer, Gordy Hall received some special attention.
The first and most noticeable difference in the residence hall that’s been housing students since September 1989, appears while walking through the front doors—new flooring, donated by Board of Trustees Chair Ken White ’61, and cove bases cover all four floors of the building. New furniture was purchased and installed into Gordy’s common areas that provide space for residents to spend time together and host events.
“Having the opportunity to open a newly renovated Gordy Hall will be an honor,” said Jeanne Sevigny, director of Residence Housing & Education. “There is no doubt in my mind that starting a year in this refined and comfortable environment will lead to a positive living community. Studies show that if a student is happy where they live, feeling that the facility meets their needs, academic success is increased.”
As students settle into their spaces, they will find the restrooms remodeled with new tiles on the floors and shower stalls, cultured marble countertops with new plumbing fixtures, new shower systems and new water efficient toilets. All bedroom suites, common areas and restrooms were also repainted.
“We take pride in our campus and want the students to have the best experience through all aspects of their journey here at Reinhardt,” Director of Facilities Jeff Dale, of National Management Resources, said.
Dean of students Dr. Walter May believes these vital improvements show Reinhardt’s commitment to constantly enhancing the undergraduate experience.
“Over the next semester, we will continue to improve the study lounges where we envision these spaces will provide opportunities for tutoring and study sessions,” said May. “Learning does not just happen in the classroom environment, and the renovation to Gordy Hall will integrate space within student living to further enhance the combined curricular, co-curricular and extra-curricular experiences for our Reinhardt students.”
Other renovations included the HVAC system being serviced and insulated, and some exterior work, including foundation seal, pressure washing, painting of exterior windows and doors, bush removal, tree pruning, grading and new landscaping.
While some updates benefitted the aesthetics of Gordy Hall, many include factors benefitting the environment. Throughout the building, facilities installed new energy efficient windows and LED lighting to reduce power usage.
“The Gordy Hall renovations shows the progression Reinhardt is taking to become more ecofriendly and energy efficient while giving the students a home away from home while living here on campus,” said Dale.
“On behalf of our residential population, I thank the many dedicated National facilities staff who made this renovation happen,” Sevigny said. “Additionally, a big thank you goes to the Student Government Association for funding the furniture for the suite common areas. Also, we want to express our gratitude to the many other sponsors who made this renovation possible. A special thank you for the flooring donation goes out to Mr. White. We appreciate all of you and thank you for supporting the development and safety of residents here at Reinhardt University.”
With students arriving on campus in just a few weeks, these renovations serve to improve the Reinhardt experience.
