Remodeled Birch Hall open
Birch Hall reopened this fall after a 16-month, $6 million renovation project.  The hall closed immediately after classes ended in May of 2010, and construction began after an extensive demolition and asbestos-abatement project. The Birch Hall renovation and the 2008 renovation of Linden Hall were part of a BSU Revenue Fund facility renovation plan running parallel to the University’s master plan. No further residence hall renovations are in the planning stages.

Sattgast Hall biology laboratories
Remodeling for the biology lab in Sattgast 325-327 was scheduled to start on Sept. 4, with demolition continuing through Wednesday, Sept. 6. While there may be a short delay on completion due to permitting issues, the anticipated completion date is Sept. 25.

Ed-Arts Building to be renamed
In conjunction with Homecoming activities this fall, BSU’s Education-Arts Building will be renamed in honor of president emeritus M. James Bensen. Bensen was the eighth president of Bemidji State University, serving from 1994-2001. He remains active in leadership and public speaking on campus, in the city and across northern Minnesota.

Ed-Arts was constructed in 1950 and renovated in 1986.

Memorial Hall renovation
This spring, BSU received bonding money from the state of Minnesota to advance its planned renovation of Memorial Hall into the design phase. State bonding money for construction on the project will be requested during the 2014 legislative session.

Future Sattgast Hall renovation in pre-design phase
After the Memorial Hall renovation, Sattgast Hall is the next campus building being targeted for renovations. Money for design will be requested during the 2014 legislative session, with construction money anticipated in 2016.