By Bryan Newcomb
Staff Reporter
University of Memphis staff and students are anticipating the fall opening of the renovated Brister Facility and Wilder Tower as construction continues throughout the summer.
Six years ago, The University secured $12 million in funding to overhaul and combine the two buildings on campus.
The new facility will be the hub for students services, including registration, counseling, financial aid and other services.
Renovations on the John S. Wilder Tower portion of the building began in March of 2001. The building’s makeover includes a new exterior, a new roof, new drywall, ceilings inside and new windows.
Physcial Plant communications specialist Lori White said the renovated facility, which was built in 1965 and served as the main library until 1994 when the Ned R. McWherter Library was completed, will be a much needed addition to the U of M campus.
“It’s gonna be great,” White said. “In the past, students have had to go to four or five different buildings across campus. This way they can go from one floor to the next instead.”
White added it will enhance the college experience for U of M students.
“It will be so much more convenient for the students and make their lives much easier.”
A Space Policy Council of 19 representatives from various departments and offices on campus will determine who gets what space. Allocation of space is based on information presented to the council by departments and individuals.
Departments slated to occupy space in the facility include the Alumni Heritage Room, the Bursar’s Office, Enrollment Services (Undergraduate and Graduate Admissions), Student Relations and Orientation Services, International Programs and Services, the University College and Student Development.
Senior Geography major Andy Allmendinger hopes the renovated facility will help to speed up the registration process students go through, including dealing with financial aid.
“I think it’s a better move. It will expand space and hopefully financial aid will be able to process people faster,” he said.
Allmendinger also likes that fact that the facility will be put to use after a long hiatus.
“It’s good to see they’re putting the old tower to use instead of it being a pigeon roost.”
White said she expects the facility to be completed by mid-September to early October.
