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by Laura Schlect

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Memorial Awaits Overhaul

Memorial Dorm was named aftr Doris Coffin Aldrich,
mother of theology professor Dr. Tim Aldrich. --Emily Dodrill, photo.

After more than 45 years, Memorial Dorm is finally getting a facelift.

Memorial Dorm, the on-campus housing for female students under the age of 21, is gradually being remodeled. The process began four years ago with the remodeling of the windows, lounges and kitchens.

Last summer, work crews remodeled the resident directors' apartments and the four bathrooms. This summer the process of remodeling the individual rooms will begin.

Dr. Wayne Strickland said the intended remodel will include new plumbing, upgraded electrical, improved soundproofing and insulation, new paint, new carpeting, new furniture and new sinks.

A female student focus group has been meeting to monitor the wants and needs of the students. If financially and practically possible, the tentative plan is to offer more than the present two-women-per-room arrangement.

Room options may include single rooms, double-occupancy rooms or suites. The development team is trying to be creative as it looks at the students' needs.

It said it wants to accommodate the students' storage and comfort needs without restricting their flexibility.

Women's dean Karen Fancher said, "We want the students to feel cared for and comfortable."

Nine out of the 10 female students interviewed said the remodel would not influence their decision to live on campus. "I would rather live on campus either way," sophomore Adina Christiansen said. "It is just more practical."

Freshman Heather Height said, "I am excited about the remodel. It is definitely something that needs to be done."

With the remodel of Memorial in its final stages, the process of remodeling the dorms on campus is nearing an end.

Eight years ago, students considered Memorial the nicest dorm on campus. After MBC built both Aldrich dorms and remodeled White Hall, Memorial became the dorm in need of the most enhancements.

"All of this remodeling has been done with the Lord's provision," Dean Fancher said. "God has been gracious."

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