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Bronc, Babcock Residence Halls slated for major renovation this summer

Expect Summer 2014 to be busy at Hastings College as residence hall renovations totaling $6 million get underway. A $3 million challenge grant from an anonymous donor and a $500,000 challenge grant from the Peter Kiewit Foundation have jump started efforts to update Bronc Hall, Babcock Hall and Taylor Hall to meet 21st century students’ needs.

“By renovating residence halls, we will improve the quality of life for Hastings College students, who will benefit from a living and learning environment that is more modern, functional and aesthetically pleasing,” said Don Jackson, President of Hastings College. “This project ensures Hastings College will remain a compelling option for students and help solidify our position as the leading private college on the plains.”  

Currently, Hastings College administrators and students, the Kiewit Building Group and TACK Architects are finalizing and prioritizing projects to complete this summer. Bronc Hall, built in 1960, and Babcock Hall, built in 1978, will undergo complete renovations, including major structural and mechanical upgrades. Included in the plans are new entry lobbies, renovated lounge spaces, new study and collaboration rooms, renovated kitchen spaces, renovated laundry facilities and individual room climate control. Paint, carpet and new room furnishings are also in the plan. Taylor Hall, built in 1938, will undergo partial renovations, including updates to shared student spaces. The plans for all three dorms include incorporating innovative and stylish designs.

“We’ve conducted forums in each of the residence halls to allow students to express their opinions,” said Brooke Ballou, a junior agribusiness and marketing major from Wilsonville, Neb. “We want the renovations to be a reflection of what they need and want to make the residence halls more like home.”

Ballou and Ellie Meisinger, a junior physics major from Littleton, Colo., serve as student representatives on the College’s Future of Residence Hall Team.

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