The jackhammers started
demolishing the Grossmont College Main Quad as soon as the
last guest departed after commencement last June 4. Thus began
Phase II of the college’s first new building since the campus
was established in El Cajon in the mid 1960s.
The long-awaited Technology Center, a remodel of the former
LRC, along with the renovated Main Quad, was joined with the
new Library/LRC to form the comprehensive Learning and
Technology Resource Center. Although the Library/LRC building
(Phase I) was completed and occupied for the first time last
August, it was decided to celebrate the completion of both
phases of this now interconnected building with one Grand
Opening. The eagerly-anticipated formal Grand Opening,
celebrating “Building Connections” is scheduled Friday, May
21, 11 a.m. in the Main Quad.
A committee composed of faculty and staff and administrators of the
operational units housed in the new facility have been planning the
event for several months. The celebration will include ribbon
cutting, inauguration of a new tradition rooted in academic
heraldry, tours of the new facilities, and refreshments. The public
is invited to attend.
“Sidewalk superintendents” observed the progress of Phase II with
much interest, especially because it involved the heart of the
campus – the Main Quad and the impressive staircase to the old
library’s entrance. Everyone watched (through the protective
fencing) as the Walk of Fame plaques were removed for safekeeping
and eventual reinstallation, earth was scooped and moved, trenches
were dug, “rebar” implanted and cement poured. Scaffolding went up
on the south side of the old building creating a two-story glass
entrance to the new Technology Center. And, the now truly grand
staircase features an upper terrace level with the words Grossmont
College inscribed in the concrete façade, providing a fitting
welcome to the LTRC, Grossmont College’s new signature building.
Construction personnel hustle to complete the final touches,
furniture is being positioned, and staff are enjoying their new
environment. The Library/LRC portion remains open for student and
faculty use through final exams. The Technology Center portion will
open to students at the beginning of summer classes, June 14. Of
course, everyone will enjoy the college’s 42nd Annual Commencement,
June 3 in the elegant new Main Quad. building.
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