Lander University's Board of Trustees has approved an increase of $100 in facilities fees that students pay each semester to help offset future capital costs of the campus. The increase will be effective in September 2012.
President Daniel Ball explained that the increase would allow the university to put several projects out to bid with the understanding that financing is in place to pay for needed renovations and new construction.
Projects include construction of a field house at the Jeff May Complex, Lander's recreation, wellness and sports center on Montague Avenue, and the redesign and reconstruction of the pedestrian walkway and plaza that separate the Carnell Learning Center, the Jackson Library and the Grier Student Center. Ball said replacement of the plaza is critical because of safety issues.
He noted that Lander has one of the lowest fee structures of any university in the state. "We would never ask students for anything more than we absolutely need."
Also during the meeting, trustees were updated on the university's initiative to recruit students from Asia. As a result of these recruitment efforts, four students from South Korea began studying at Lander in the fall. In the spring they will be joined by 13 additional students bringing the total number of South Korean students to 17.
In addition to student recruitment, eight Greenwood families will serve as host families to international students as part of the university's Friendship Family Program, providing students with American cultural and family experiences. To learn more about the university's Friendship Family Program, contact the Office of International Programs at 864-388-8646.
Trustees were also updated on several upcoming athletic events, including the dedication ceremony for the Stephen B. Dolny Baseball Stadium at the Jeff May Complex. The event is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 3, at 5:30 p.m.
Lander is also scheduled to host the Peach Belt Conference men's and women's tennis championship for the first time. On April 21-22, the top eight teams in the conference will converge for the competition at the Jeff May Complex's Joe Cabri Tennis Center.
For more information on events, programs and campus news, visit the university's website at www.lander.edu.