UW-Stevens Point: Groundbreaking for sustainable military science facility at UWSP on Earth Day

University Relations and Communications, 715-346-3046, Fax 715-346-2042, http://www.uwsp.edu/news

Groundbreaking for a sustainable new facility for the Military Science program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will be part of the campus’ Earth Day festivities on Thursday, April 22.

The groundbreaking will be held at 10 a.m. at the north side of the Health Enhancement Center (on the practice football field). Speaking at the event will be Command Sergeant Major Hershel Turner of the U.S. Army Cadet Command in Fort Monroe, Va., Colonel Sharon Wisniewski of the 3rd ROTC Brigade, Stevens Point Mayor Andrew Halverson, Interim Chancellor Mark Nook as well as UWSP ROTC administrators and students. A reception will follow.

As an annex of the Health Enhancement Center, this is the first facility in the UW System to be built specifically for a Military Science Department. The new construction will provide an improved environment for UWSP ROTC cadets for classes and training, as well as moving the entire Pointer ROTC battalion into a more visible and convenient location on campus.

In addition to the academic benefits, the new facility will comply with the state’s Sustainable Facilities Guidelines, based on the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, according to lead architect Nate Heuss of Mudrovich Architects. The project will feature:

* Recycling of construction waste

* Durable construction for maximum life span

* Energy efficiency in the walls, roof and windows, an efficient heating and ventilating system and energy efficient fluorescent lighting

* Regionally supplied materials

* Good indoor air quality

* Exterior sediment and erosion control plan and reduced light pollution

For more information about the Military Science Department facility or program, contact Master Sergeant Michael Butcher at 715-346-3821.