Why Wesleyan? - West Virginia Wesleyan College

Alumni News & Class NotesCreating a New Chapel OvalConstruction signs appeared on campus this summerwith the words “Please excuse our mess.” The ChapelOval is being reconstructed to provide more opengreen space with a picturesque park-like feel includingbrick walkways, more pedestrian-friendly areas, andenhanced beauty to an already attractive centralgathering and recreational space.This construction project is part of Wesleyan’s CampusFacilities Master Plan and follows the completion of three majorbuilding projects: the $7.2 million Virginia Thomas LawCenter for the Performing Arts, the $5 million Fleming Hallresidence hall renovation, and the $8.9 million David E.Reemsnyder Research Center.“Temporary inconvenience leads to permanent improvement,”stated Dr. Barry Pritts, vice president for administration andfinance. “We are making bold moves to meet expectations offuture students. These projects demonstrate that, in spite of othereconomic forces, Wesleyan is moving forward and growing.”The initial step of this project was to remove the asphalt areaformerly used as parking. Three other parking areas are beingdeveloped on campus to offset this loss of 76 parking spaces.The new parking areas provide approximately 140 spaces.A pull-through and drop-off area is also included in the planat the oval for access to the French A. See Dining Center.“The design will truly create a distinctive and stunningly beautifularea in front of Wesley Chapel,” said President Pamela Balch ’71.Work is expected to be completed in mid-September.SUMMER/FALL 2010 SUNDIAL 35