President responds to concern over construction

This letter was originally e-mailed to the Milligan campus this summer after preconstruction work for the new convocation center began. It was submitted to The Stampede in response to the above printed editorial.

Dear campus:

I realize that there are many mixed feelings over the site preparation work and clearing of trees for the Convocation Center and Theatre project. That is certainly understandable. We all value and appreciate the natural beauty of our campus and work to enhance that as much as possible.

Clarinda and I personally have taken a special interest in improving the landscaping and aesthetics of campus. In fact we have planted approximately 75 trees since 1997 and we remain committed to that effort. Earlier this week we welcomed twenty-one friends and alumni to campus as part of the Restoration Crew that helps us make improvements to our buildings and grounds. In a few weeks we will be joining together as a campus to devote a work day to these same efforts as we prepare for our students to return. These work groups are all focused on improving our appearance. I appreciate everyone's commitment to and interest in the college's initiatives. This means that we are all passionate about the mission and life of this institution, and that is encouraging.

As much as anyone, I had hoped we could save the large oak tree next to the tennis courts. But the ultimate conclusion reached recently by the architects, builder, and our planning committee, including Dick Major, was that it was not possible to do so due to the sewer, electrical, and water lines running all around and under the tree. We were informed that the construction work itself would seriously damage the tree and its root system and the backfill from extending the commons would result in several feet of additional soil being placed around the base of the tree. It also became evident that all the other trees in the construction area needed to come down, as well, due to site preparation work (they will be grading and filling in the slope from the Commons area down towards the road). We are also doing site work for phase two; I don't know when it will be built but doing the infrastructure now will be less expensive and less disruptive now than in years to come. We were disheartened by this conclusion but realize that it is in the best interest of the college.

It is certainly a stark view right now but I ask you to be patient with the process and patient with us as we work through this process. The end result will be a beautiful and long-awaited facility to serve our theatre program and entire campus community. In addition to the facility, the new landscaping, new trees, and entire commons area will further enhance our campus' natural beauty in some new and exciting ways as that center area of campus becomes more alive and inviting than ever before.

We will be working to further explain the construction process to you along the way in each stage. We are sorry that the tree cutting caught everyone by surprise; the contractor for taking down the trees had to leave for a 4-6 week job in middle Tennessee. Our goal will be to provide as much information in advance as possible about the process. I hope that all can be supportive of the project; it certainly advances the college and is a fulfillment of our commitment when we took the theatre out of Derthick. Admittedly, the process will at times be painful, but the end result will be something with which I think we will all be proud and pleased.

Thank you,
Don