NEW ENGLAND COLLEGE LAUNCHES CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT WITH NEW FACILITY
Artist Rendering of New England College's New Building
Construction Targeted To Begin in Fall of 2013
Henniker, NH – New England College, one of the region’s leading liberal arts schools, will soon break ground on a new facility for students pursuing business degrees. The project is part of a campus improvement plan designed to provide opportunities to update technology, offer more classroom space, and eventually hold a state-of-the-art theater for political debates and special events.
New England College has hired nationally renowned Boston-based architectural firm, Sasaki Associates, Inc. to lead in the design and construction of the business school. Inspiring, creative and fresh designs are a hallmark of Sasaki projects. “We chose Sasaki because their designers create plans that reflect aesthetic value while accomplishing the core purpose of the new building,” explains Michele Perkins, President of New England College. “Each project is designed to be an enduring addition to the landscape – blending with natural surroundings yet standing out with its own unique design.”
“We are acutely aware of the need to balance the needs of our College and the best interests of the town of Henniker”, says Perkins. “We are confident Sasaki will help us achieve that balance as we strive to improve our programs for students and faculty.”
Recent projects by the firm include the Drexel University Athletic Center, Utah State’s new Performance Hall, framework plans for Ohio State and Northwestern University campuses, University of Arizona rec center expansion, Sacred Heart University Chapel.
Sasaki’s philosophy is to ensure the structure fits into the surrounding area, but also contributes to the greater environmental good. Many of the company’s previous ventures have included various conservation practices. Survey work is underway on campus and a design plan will be completed in the next six months. Sasaki architects have explained the new building will still have the timeless look and feel of a New England style building, but with some exciting new twists.
“We look forward to seeing the ideas from the designers,” says Perkins. “We are in contact with members of the Henniker town planning board. Once we have a plan on paper, we will sit down with town leaders and discuss the best way to proceed.”
The new facility will replace the existing building located at the corner of Depot Hill Road and Circle Street. Phase one, set to begin fall of 2013, will provide new classroom spaces, computer rooms, faculty and staff offices and learning spaces. Phase two will include a so-called “black box” theater; a flexible space which can be used for political debates, theater productions and special events on campus.
Fundraising for the new facility is well underway. Both phases are expected to be completed within the next few years. “We intend to provide the very best learning environment possible at NEC, while maintaining the bond and the support of Henniker residents,” says Perkins. “This is an exciting project and we will certainly offer updates on progress.”
About New England College:
New England College emphasizes experiential learning as an essential component in the development of an enduring academic community. Building upon a strong liberal arts foundation, we challenge our students to reach their full potential through informed discourse and the pursuit of excellence in a framework of academic freedom. New England College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Inc. (NEASC) through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education. The Teacher Education Program (and the majors in Elementary Education, Physical Education, Secondary Education, and Special Education) are approved by the New Hampshire Department of Education.
Published: January 15, 2013
