Dear Providence College Parents,

Two of the principal recommendations of the Committee on Campus Culture, Conduct, and Civility in its report on student alcohol abuse are the need for students to enjoy greater access to campus facilities late at night and on weekends, and for alternative, non-alcohol programming. While the slowing economy may impact the pace of implementing certain strategic initiatives, those deemed critical to support student development issues and transform student life -- like those identified in the report cited above -- will stay on track.

For example, the renovation and expansion of Slavin Center -- to provide attractive common gathering space and support new program initiatives for students -- is so important that we are going forward in accord with previous plans. The College's Board of Trustees and Corporation agreed that reclaiming Slavin Center as a vibrant student union through thoughtful renovations is critically important for our students' health and well-being.

This construction project is designed to re-establish our student union, built in 1971, as an attractive student gathering place and preferred destination. By renovating the Slavin Center and enriching our activities programming, we intend to provide a safe, attractive alternative to off-campus activities and to further strengthen the sense of campus community.

The footprint of the Slavin Center will be expanded on the south side to provide 24/7 space for students to use for informal social gatherings. This will increase dramatically the current available space for this use from 600 to 4,700 square feet. A glass-enclosed atrium incorporating rooftop photovoltaic cells to harness energy as part of a "solar green" initiative will create a new south side entrance to Slavin Center. The atrium's striking design will parallel that of the Concannon Fitness Center's Ruane Atrium, providing natural sunlight during the day and a welcome open space at night.

The $6 million renovation will expand studio space for WDOM radio and PCtv and create a new late-night snack station. The expansion also will incorporate multiple new seating areas, some with televisions, for students who want to spend time with friends or watch a televised game or program in an alcohol-free environment.

Student representatives have worked closely with the Office of Student Affairs Administration to identify the various kinds of gathering places and new programs to be accommodated in this project, which will encompass a total of 8,800 square feet of new space and 560 square feet of renovated space on three levels.

We have set an ambitious timetable-September 2009 -- to complete this dynamic, campus-focused solution to recreation, health, and wellness issues critical to our students' success. Construction updates will be posted on the College's PC Now Web site. Fundraising efforts to support the project are now underway.

I am hopeful that, beginning with the next academic year, these efforts to enhance our students' on-campus experience and secure their well-being will prove effective, and that, with God's grace, we will begin to realize a revitalized campus culture that celebrates and supports community through healthy living choices.

Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P.