Dear Bentley community,
In recent years, two themes that support our Falcons Forward 2030 strategic plan have guided Bentley’s progress: An embrace of technology, innovation and entrepreneurship and a focus on student wellbeing as the foundation of a successful university.
We’ve been rightly talking a lot about the first theme – including the exciting renovation of the Adamian Academic Center – and today I’m pleased to announce progress on the second theme as well.
Starting next month, we will begin renovations to the Dana Center gymnasium that will separate the Barbara Stevens Court from the rest of the gym, allowing new space for students and all members of our community to play basketball, pickleball, volleyball, dodgeball, yoga, dance, cheer and other activities during more hours of the day, including when our talented varsity basketball and volleyball teams are practicing on the main court.
This is a wise, timely and fiscally prudent investment in the health of our students. The Dana Center was built in 1973, and this project – including the much-needed replacement of the gym floor – will be the first significant renovation since 2006. Work will start in the coming weeks and be completed by the start of the fall semester. All work will be covered by funds from our regular capital improvement budget that keeps our campus facilities up to date. The building’s fitness center, weight room and pool will be unaffected and remain open during normal hours.
Providing welcoming spaces for our students to relax and exercise is so important to their mental and physical health. That’s why we transformed the Copley North lounge last year into a student wellbeing space, and it’s why I’m excited that the Dana Center will soon be more widely available to more students during more hours of the day.
This is another step toward creating a healthy campus environment that will empower our students to get more exercise, improve their health and reach their full potential on the court, in the classroom and beyond.
Most sincerely,
President Chrite