Brooks Hall renovation celebrated
McCOOK, Neb. -- Mid-Plains Community College invested more than $2 million in its McCook campus dorm facilities recently and celebrated completion of the project this morning with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The renovation project added approximately 2500 square feet to the Brooks Hall building and included expansions to the kitchen and dining area, installation of an elevator and electrical upgrades to the entire building, among other enhancements.
College officials said it brought student life outside of the classroom up to speed with the high standards set for education facilities.
McCook Community College Vice-President Andy Long was joined by a crowd of more than 70 supporters of the project this morning. Long said the new addition complimented upgrades made to the student restrooms and shower facilities a year ago and would improve dorm living in several areas based on student feedback received in the past.
"I'm thrilled with the improvements we made," said Long, adding they would significantly enhance student interaction outside of class.
"Students are not going to get a better two-year eduction anywhere else in the state. Now we have the living quarters to go with that," said Long.
Long expressed gratitude to a laundry list of local groups and people supporting the college and said projects such as the Brooks Hall renovation typically take 10 to 15 years of work just to bring the financial portion together. He praised Mid-Plains Community College President Ryan Purdy for his efforts as the college's Chief Financial Officer prior to becoming president.
Long asked those in attendance to spread the word, both locally and outside of the region, letting people know about the high quality education available in McCook.