Indiana State University Newsroom

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. -- Indiana State University has been given the green light from the State Budget Committee to proceed with the of renovation Sandison Hall, a nine-story facility which has been closed since Spring 2006.

"Bidding for the project will begin immediately so construction begins this summer," said Thomas Ramey, vice president of student affairs. "It will be ready in time for Fall 2010 move-in day."

Construction, estimated to run approximately $11 million, will be funded by the university's residence hall reserve funds and long-term debt issued in the form of bonds. No state funds will support this project.

Constructed in 1962 and last renovated in 1988, Sandison Hall, located attached to Hulman Memorial Student Union, is named after Indiana State Normal School alumnus Howard Sandison, who served as the school's vice president from 1881 to 1917.

Like the recent renovations of Burford, Hines and Jones Halls, the Sandison project will reconfigure existing space to create double-occupancy rooms that have individual air-conditioning and heat controls as well as private baths. Two activity rooms, equipped with SmartBoards and video conferencing capabilities will be located in the basement, along with a conference room. The building also will have wireless access throughout and a fire suppression system.

Once completed, Sandison will become the home away from home to 240 men and women. Renovating campus housing is a key component in growing Indiana State's enrollment as well as ensuring student satisfaction.

"Part of that process is to attract students by having modern facilities and offering the amenities they desire," Ramey said. "Sandison Hall is prime campus real estate. It is located close to classrooms, labs, the library, recreational facilities and the student union."

The Sandison renovation is part of a systematic upgrading of residence hall facilities to provide attractive living and learning spaces that students crave, Ramey said.

"This is the first of what we think will be a series of steps to improve our housing and make it more appealing to prospective students and better serve them," he added.

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Media Contact and Writer: Paula Meyer, ISU Communications & Marketing, (812) 237-3783 or paula.meyer@indstate.edu