Union Receives $300,000 Grant from Brown Foundation
Funding will provide much-needed updates to residence halls

The James Graham Brown Foundation of Louisville has provided a $300,000 grant to Union College to modernize the residence halls and install a new dormitory security system. The project addresses much-needed improvements, including updating bathroom facilities; replacing old furniture and mattresses in the dorm rooms; and installing an electronic keycard system that will help secure the residential areas. These improvements to campus living, designed to increase effective service to students, represent Union's commitment to its new vision.

"It is very important for us to address security issues since the safety of our students is at the top of Union's priorities," said President David Joyce. "Also, with the completion of the new Sharp Academic Center and the restoration of Speed Hall, the residence halls were definitely old and tired compared to the new facilities. In keeping with our mission statement, this generous grant will help the College provide an environment that is critical to building a true learning community."

Work on the various projects will begin immediately, according to Lisa Jordan-Payne, Vice President of Student Life, with some slated for completion by the end of the current semester, such as the electronic lock system for external doors. New mattresses will be waiting for students returning from spring break at all three dorms-Pfeiffer Hall, Stevenson Hall and Lakeside-while bathroom renovations are to be finished in time for the start of the new academic year in late August. The incoming freshman class of men and women arriving at Pfeiffer Hall this fall will enjoy new modular furniture, which allows flexible arrangements to provide variety and suit individual needs.

"I can't tell you how happy and excited I am to have this funding," said Jordan-Payne. "It will allow us to provide some things that students have been asking for ever since I've been Dean, with furniture, bathrooms and safety being the three most important." While the grant will allow completion of just under half the residential improvements needed, it will make a major impact on campus life, she added. "Your living environment influences everything across the board and I'm thrilled we can make such a big difference in providing both a secure and pleasant 'home' for our students."

Over the past several years, the James Graham Brown Foundation has generously funded many projects on Union's campus such as the construction of the new Sharp Academic Center, campus-wide beautification and restoration of Speed Hall, renovating dormitories, strengthening technology, and providing student scholarships.
The James Graham Brown Foundation, Inc. was established under a trust agreement in 1943 and formally incorporated in 1954. James Graham Brown was a lumberman, horseman and entrepreneur with the majority of his wealth being made in the timber industry. He died in 1969.

Union College is a learning community dedicated to creating personal, intellectual, and social transformation through the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, service, and spiritual growth. Founded in 1879, the College is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

January 28, 2002

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