SCUP 2013 North Atlantic Symposium:
LEEDing the Way to Change

When Dr. Kendrick assumed the presidency at Gateway Community College in 1999, it was immediately evident that the two existing campuses, which were 10 miles apart, were going to be insufficient for the growth and expansions she envisioned. The journey from dream to reality required the formation of unprecedented collaborations and partnerships, and very careful planning. This effort involved identifying the key stakeholders; determining program opportunities and local collaborations; identifying opportunities and challenges of a downtown location; and addressing expanding enrollment.

Key questions:
• Who were the key stakeholders and how did they influence decisions?
• How did program offerings impact the physical plant?
• What were the issues of moving the campus to downtown?
• What were the expansion options?

From the wish list and intitial design, to the end result, the design and planning process required creativity, compromise and patience. Once vetted through the budget process, the final product was re-conceptualized and re-designed several times to create a beautiful, highly utilitatian, and welcoming college campus. The panelists will discuss best practices and lessons learned for this project.

There are three ways to tour the campus. There will be two sets of the guided tours beginning at 12:00 and at 1:00. Sign up sheets will be available at onsite registration.

1. Guided LEARNing Tour: Learn about the latest technologies in the allied health, nursing, science, culinary, and manufacturing labs. Visit a smart classroom and hear about how the facility has enhanced college life for more than 8,000 students per semester.
    
2. Guided LEED Tour: GCC’s certified LEED gold features can be found all over the building. Tour the facility and see, first hand, how green features are embedded into the campus and culture.
    
3. Walking Tour: Pick up a walking tour brochure and stroll the campus at your leisure. Student ambassadors are available to answer your questions. Look for the blue sash that says "tour guide".

Dr. Kendrick identified the student body as one of the key stakeholders beginning with the master plan. A panel of students will discuss their involvement and experiences with the new campus, including the impact on learning, student life, community engagement, and their overall college experience from the old facility to the new building. There will be opportunities for questions and answers.

According to a 2008 economic impact study, Gateway Community College contributes $400 million to the regional economy each year. The GREAT (Gateway’s Resource Education & Training) Center impacts this through its workforce development for both business and industry, and its professional development programs. The need for qualified and well-trained workers is met through partnerships with regional employers. They work with the college to offer short-term training and certification with state-of-the-art technology in a professional environment that rivals any corporate setting. www.GatewayCT.edu/Work