Baldwin Hall Showcases Multimillion Dollar Renovations

At the University of Cincinnati's College of Engineering, students are encouraged take the tried and true and make it better. Now, Baldwin Hall, the main residence of the College of Engineering, shares that distinction with its students.

"Baldwin Hall has been the home of engineering undergraduates for 90 years; this is the one thing that binds them all together," according to Dean Stephen Kowel.

Prior to the 100th anniversary of the college in 2001, it was decided that Baldwin Hall needed a deserved upgrade after serving students for almost a century. A two-year $16 million renovation plan was launched and closed the building completely.

The goal of the renovation plan was to recreate a facility that would support the educational needs of undergraduate students and incorporate the latest technological advances while retaining the historic nature and aesthetic qualities of Baldwin. The result is a new look and feel to the facility that has been a trademark of the College of Engineering.

Students now enjoy wireless networking in the classrooms, seminar rooms and new group study areas. Meanwhile improvements to the library and a central administrative office for improved student services have created a user-friendly environment for learning.

From April 18-20, 2002, awards ceremonies and special guests will be a part of the celebration to culminate with the official re-opening of Baldwin Hall. On Thursday the 18th, the College of Engineering will hold its annual Distinguished Alumni Awards honoring outstanding alumni in the areas of education, business, engineering and distinguished service.

On Friday, April 19th, there will be poster sessions with graduate students from 1:30-4 p.m. on the 400 level of the Engineering Research Center, with a presentation by Joseph Bordogna, the deputy director of the National Science Foundation, along with open house of selected laboratories.

On Saturday, April 20th, there will be a brunch honoring members of the Baldwin Society (donors to the College of Engineering); a ribbon cutting ceremony at 1:30 p.m.; an open house from 1:45-4 p.m.; and Mayor Charlie Luken will issue a proclamation declaring the day Baldwin Hall Day in Cincinnati.