PSU Athletic Director John Clark is all smiles as he signs the Last Beam in the Oct. 30 ceremony.

The last steel beam of the project was signed by a variety of stakeholders of the $16 million dollar facility, including the chair of the Board of Trustees, members of the President's Council, the Cabinet, Student Senate, men and women's hockey teams, Health and Human Performance students and faculty, Athletics Department staff and coaches, and civic leaders from Holderness and Plymouth. PSU President Sara Jayne Steen said the ceremony not only marks a milestone in the construction process, but also celebrates those who have made the project possible.

Members of PSU's Student Senate and University administrators pose with the "Last Beam" in front of Plymouth State's new $16 million dollar Ice Arena and Welcome Center. Dozens of University students, athletes, administrators, donors and local officials signed the last beam, which will be hoisted into place November 9. The facility, which features green technology for energy savings and sustainability, is scheduled to open next summer.

"We are here today to thank those many, many people who have turned what once was a dream into the reality that is rising so beautifully before us," Steen said. "We are extremely proud to bring this new front door' to the University and our region."

The chair of the University System of New Hampshire Board of Trustees, Ed Dupont, said the building will benefit the state.

"We take great pride in Plymouth State University and its aspirations for a better future for all of New Hampshire," said Dupont. "The beauty and elegance of this project is its aim to benefit not only PSU and its students, but also to improve employment in the region, enhance opportunities for physical activity for local residents, bolster the tourism industry in central and northern New Hampshire, and expose more prospective students to the University."

Lindsay Harrington, Student Senate speaker, spoke of students' involvement in the project. She imagined the generations of students to follow, "who may think there's always been an ice arena in Plymouth - as we think of the HUB or the Silver Center for the Performing Arts."

The captain of the PSU men's hockey team, senior Chris Chambers, said the University is taking a big step toward the future.

"I'm very proud for this institution," Chambers said. "Not only will this be great for the University and students, but it will bring a lot more people to the community from around the state."

The beam will be hoisted into place by Monday, November 9, where it will be visible to the public. The structure is scheduled to be completed in the summer of 2010.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 11/4/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6737 PLYMOUTH, N.H.- A veteran ice facility manager will oversee the new Plymouth State University Ice Arena and Welcome Center. Ken Knight assumed his duties Nov. 2, which include overseeing day-to-day operations of the facility, scheduling all events, staff supervision, marketing, promotions, maintenance and managing the Welcoming Center and Multipurpose rooms. Knight has 31 years of ice arena management experience, including positions in Indiana, Texas and Wisconsin. Knight said PSU's facility, which is slated for completion next summer, is a wonderful opportunity.

Ken Knight

"I am very excited to be here and a part of such a major project," Knight said.

"I look forward to working with the student organizations and the varsity hockey teams. I am also very excited about working with the various community groups."

Knight said the Arena will offer many activities for area residents, including learn to skate, hockey and figure programs, broomball and public skating sessions.

Knight is a native of southern Indiana and earned a bachelor's in communications from Southern Indiana University.

The Ice Arena is the first of a five-phase plan to construct PSU's new ALLWell Center complex (Active Living, Learning, and Wellness). Future phases of the ALLWell Center will house classrooms, research laboratories, lecture halls, offices, multipurpose activity laboratories, conference rooms, and general support areas for academic and athletic programs. The Ice Arena will be built to meet LEED Silver standards by installing sophisticated geothermal heating/cooling design to maximize energy conservation opportunities.

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 11/4/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6738

PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Seven Plymouth State graduates have been honored with Alumni Recognition awards for service to the school, community and their professional achievements. The 2009 Alumni Awards were presented Saturday, Oct. 17 at Heritage Commons as part of Homecoming and Family Celebration Weekend.

Here are the award recipients:

Distinguished Alumni Service Award: Larry Haynes 1986

The Distinguished Alumni Service Award, established in 1963, recognizes the graduate who through unselfish devotion and loyalty has served Plymouth State University and/or its alumni organizations. To be eligible, a graduate shall have rendered unusual service in the form of: faithful and continued effort in such areas as maintaining class or other alumni organizations; active participation in alumni or university affairs; and assistance in expanding the usefulness, influence and prestige of the university. Haynes, a member of the President's Council and the USNH Board of Trustees, said he was surprised at being chosen.

"It's very humbling to be included in such a prestigious group," Haynes said. "I've always wanted to contribute in a small way, certainly it's a thrill to be recognized."

Alumni Achievement Award: Fred Bramante G06

Established in 1978, and modified in 1991, the Alumni Achievement Award recognizes deserving alumni who exemplify the university's motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve) through active participation in and special contribution to, the activities of the PSU Alumni Association, their chosen professional field, or the improvement of society in general. Bramante, a successful businessman and former state school board chair, has long advocated reforming school systems to include real world learning,' like involving local businesses in offering mentoring opportunities to students. Bramante said the Alumni award is significant to him.

"It's a recognition that the work I've been putting forward has merit and people are starting to accept it and move in a new direction in improving schools around the country," said Bramante.

The Ut Prosim Award: Richard Wylie 1963

The Ut Prosim Award, established in 1998, recognizes an alumna or alumnus whose exemplary community service and contributions in business, professional, civic, philanthropic, volunteer or similar activities are worthy of recognition and have brought honor to Plymouth State University and exemplify the University's motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve). Primary volunteer service shall not be to Plymouth State University, but to the community. Types of service include, but are not limited to:

• Elected office or other civic involvement

• Community improvement programs (Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Girl/Boy Scout leadership, Homelessness Task Force, etc.)

• Service society membership (Lion's Club, Kiwanis, etc.)

• Leadership in professional organizations.

Wylie is the longtime President of Endicott College in Beverly, Mass., and has served as a professor and administrator at the University of Connecticut, Temple University, the University of Colorado, and Lesley College. He is very involved with community volunteering, sitting on numerous boards including banks, corporations and non-profit agencies. Wylie said giving back to the community is an integral part of his life and it was nurtured when he was an undergraduate student in Plymouth.

"It reinforces what I learned at Plymouth, giving and caring does make a difference," Wylie said. "I think we can be models to others and encourage others to do it; I'm greatly appreciative of this award."

Plymouth State University Alumni Association 2009 honorees, from left to right, Amanda Crean, Christina Labriola, Gene Martin, Class of 2009 Officers who received the Graduating Senior Award of Excellence, Kim Rawson Sychterz, Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award, Linda Levy, Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence, Heidi Pettigrew, Recent Alumni Award of Excellence, Fred Bramante, Alumni Achievement Award, Larry Haynes, Distinguished Alumni Service Award, and Richard Wylie, Ut Prosim Award.

Recent Alumni Award of Excellence: Heidi Pettigrew 1999, G07

Established in 2008, the Recent Alumni Award of Excellence is awarded to alumni who have graduated within the last 10 years, in recognition of professional excellence and outstanding service to the University, association, community and/or nation. Pettigrew received both her undergraduate and graduate degrees from PSU and is currently the Marketing Manager for PSU's College of Graduate Studies. Pettigrew said she is deeply honored to receive the award.

"As a student, Plymouth prepared me with the skills and knowledge I needed to succeed professionally," Pettigrew said. "Now, as an employee, Plymouth has given me the opportunity identify and pursue my professional interests; connect and collaborate with staff, faculty, students, and alumni; and explore and implement new ideas to best serve the University and our constituents. I look forward to continuing to serve Plymouth State-as an employee and proud alum."

Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence: Linda Levy G04 - HHP

Established in 2008, the Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence is awarded to a faculty or staff member who exhibits a commitment to supporting alumni and students connections in a campus environment. Levy, an HHP associate professor, said she hoped that she can continue to give as much to the University as she has received.

"It's very humbling to receive an award from an alumni association," said Levy. "For me, it's just a way to give back to a place that's given me so much."

Graduating Senior Award of Excellence: The Class of 2009 Officers (Eugene Martin, Christina Labriola, Amanda Crean)

Established in 2008, the Graduating Senior Award of Excellence is awarded to a graduating member of the incoming alumni class who exhibits outstanding campus and community leadership while enhancing alumni activities. Martin said the Class of 2009 started a scholarship program for students of the ALLWell Center because it's a gift that will directly aid students.

"We chose the class gift to better the institution, rather than just giving a bench or something tangible, we're giving chances for scholarships to help the ALLWell Center, so hopefully we've set the bar for the next set of folks," Martin said.

Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award : Kim Rawson Sychterz G09

Established in 2008, the Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award is awarded to a graduate alum who through earning an advanced degree has been able to impact their profession, community or society in a positive and meaningful manner. Rawson Sychterz credits PSU's faculty with her success and said the award reflects their hard work.

"It's a huge honor," said Rawson Sychterz. "The faculty have given me so many opportunities; they've helped me become what I am today and accomplish the things I have today."

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu ]]> 10/19/09 http://www.plymouth.edu/news/fullstory.php?number=6719

PSU's new Ice Arena is scheduled to open in Fall 2010

PLYMOUTH, N.H.- Construction began this week on a new ice arena, Plymouth State University officials announced today. The Ice Arena will cost $16.4 million and is scheduled to be completed by late summer 2010.

The Ice Arena will seat 850 spectators and serve as a teaching facility for instruction and research in ice activities, a home for Panther varsity men's and women's ice hockey teams, and a site for student recreation. The Ice Arena will also be a venue for community skating including high school athletics, adult and youth hockey leagues, figure skating, and recreational skating.

The Ice Arena will feature a Welcome Center lobby and facilities that will provide an attractive meeting place for prospective students, parents, and visitors to the campus as well as the towns of Plymouth and Holderness and the wider region.

"The Ice Arena will be more than just an athletic facility on our campus," said PSU President Sara Jayne Steen. "It will allow the University to broaden its physical resources to improve our student experience, provide a competitive advantage for student recruitment, allow more community access to our facilities, and enhance the quality of life in the region."

What does this mean for PSU?
The Ice Arena is the first of a five-phase plan to construct PSU's new ALLWell Center complex (Active Living, Learning, and Wellness).

Future phases of the ALLWell Center will house classrooms, research laboratories, lecture halls, offices, multipurpose activity laboratories, conference rooms, and general support areas for academic and athletic programs. A new field house will provide additional instructional space. An aquatic center will enhance capacity for instruction, community programming, and serve as a qualified competition venue. The Foley Gymnasium will be relocated to a new building that will house instructional and laboratory facilities, an athletic training suite, and strength and conditioning centers for students and the community.

The entire project is designed so that on-going activities are not interrupted as new facilities come on line and old facilities are removed.

"The Health and Human Performance department is the University's third largest program," said Provost Julie Bernier. "The ALLWell Center will provide a state-of-the-art academic facility for our students allowing them to learn and excel beyond what is currently possible."

The Health and Human Performance department also has established recently a Center for Active Living and Healthy Communities, an institute for research and outreach on health and wellness in rural areas that will eventually be housed in the ALLWell Center.

The Ice Arena serves as a community facility
The Ice Arena will serve as a "welcome center" for the Lake Region and North Country and a key distribution point for material and information about local communities and the region.

The Ice Arena responds to the market demand for increasing numbers of adult and youth hockey activities in the Northeast; hockey is one of the fastest growing sports in New England.

"Community support is vital to its success, in terms of public access, support of the arena, and partnerships with local groups," said PSU Executive Director of University Relations Steve Barba.

Why is PSU moving forward with building the Ice Arena given the current economic climate?
The Ice Arena is the first in a five-phase project. Preparation for the construction of the Ice Arena included an independent feasibility study completed in 2007 that indicated a strong business case for the reconstruction of the current Physical Education Center into a state-of-the-art complex that will eventually integrate the department of Health and Human Performance (HHP) with athletics, recreation, and community programs.

Funds to underwrite the construction of the Ice Arena have been generated by New Hampshire Health and Education Facilities Authority (HEFA) bonds. The Ice Arena operating costs will be supported by funds generated through private donations, corporate sponsorships, operations of the rink, and student fees. The State of New Hampshire is providing support through a Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) grant. The PSU Student Senate demonstrated its support for the new Ice Arena by unanimously approving an annual student fee to begin in 2010.

"This is an excellent addition to the campus," said PSU Vice President for Finance and Administration Steve Taksar. "It will be managed as an auxiliary operation, which means it must be self-sustaining."

Economic impact of the Ice Arena
According to an independent economic impact study, it is estimated that the Ice Arena construction project will create 25.8 additional employment positions earning $1,031,000. Construction is scheduled to take 15 months and during that time, there will be $2,245,000 in additional business sales in the region.

Wright-Ryan Construction, Inc. from Portland, ME is the primary contractor for the Ice Arena project. Approximately 60 percent of the construction contractors are New Hampshire-based companies.

It is estimated that once open, the Ice Arena will create 17.3 new jobs in the region with $508,000 in new salaries. Operations of the Ice Arena will also generate $2,333,000 annually. Significant increases in day and overnight visitor traffic are anticipated.

PSU's commitment to sustainability
The Ice Arena will be built to meet LEED Silver standards by installing sophisticated geothermal heating/cooling design to maximize energy conservation opportunities.

"In order to maximize the sustainability of this facility PSU is installing the large geothermal field and using other energy-saving devices that will reduce energy consumption by at least 28 percent over a traditional arena," said PSU's Director of Environmental Sustainability Bill Crangle.

The combination of geothermal and the capture of waste heat generated by ice making equipment will provide the heat for the facility thereby removing reliance on traditional fuel-based heating system.

Because of the energy-efficient design, this facility will require less energy consumption than PSU's traditional academic and residential buildings of the same size.

The University is also developing plans to make available to area science classes the opportunity to learn first-hand about the various "green" technologies being implemented in the Ice Arena.

For more information contact PSU Director of Public Relations at: cwilliams@plymouth.edu or (603) 535-2476.

About Plymouth State University
Plymouth State University is the University System of New Hampshire's regional comprehensive university that combines a heritage of teaching excellence with innovation in engaged research and community outreach. Approximately 4,000 undergraduate and 3,000 graduate students currently are enrolled at PSU, which has state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities; a classic New England village campus; four-season recreation; and historic landscapes that inspire all who study, work, and live here. PSU has a special focus on the North Country and Lakes Region.

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-More than 800 Plymouth State University undergraduate degrees were conferred to the class of 2008 as faculty, staff, administration, friends and family celebrated students' achievements and successes, Saturday, May 17.

Accompanied by a bagpiper, the graduating seniors and faculty marched the traditional route from campus over Route 175-A and gathered on Currier Memorial Field for the University's 137th Commencement Exercise, which drew nearly 4,000 people.

PSU President Sara Jayne Steen welcomed the guests and congratulated the graduates, telling them they are all success stories.

"You have shown that you can complete something difficult, that you can achieve something that matters," said Steen. "You're going to have a chance now to earn your living doing something you love every day. You have also been given the great gift of a higher education. Please use it well."

Highlights of the Commencement Exercise included:

T. Holmes "Bud" Moore, retired Headmaster and President of the New Hampton School, received a Granite State Award.

"I'm especially pleased to be accepting this award from PSU because of its commitment to serving the higher education needs of students and enhancing the quality of life in New Hampshire."

Moore delivered the commencement address, noting PSU's legacy of education in the Granite State. He also provided graduates with a brief list of suggestions for finding happiness.

• "Share your talents with others."
• "Be active."
• "Consider teaching either as a career, or volunteer."
• "Be optimistic."
• "Respect every human being as a worthwhile individual."
• "Be a steward."

Read more about T. Holmes "Bud" Moore ...

Elizabeth Cox, Associate Professor of Theatre, received the Distinguished Teaching Award, telling graduates that you never stop the learning process.

"This award is very humbling. I have learned probably more from you than you from me," Cox said.

Read more about Elizabeth Cox ...

Jay Moskowitz, Adjunct Faculty in Art, received the Distinguished Teaching Award - Adjunct Faculty. He thanked the students and wished them luck in their future endeavors. "I love you all," Moskowitz said.

Read more about Jay Moskowitz ...

PSU Fast facts

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or Bruce Lyndes