New LCC Dorm Financing Almost Completed

View of Construction Facing North

“We’re making good progress on the new dorm on campus and we’re down to less than $28,000 from having the cost being fully funded,” according to Lamar Community College President, John Marrin. Marrin made those remarks to the Prowers County Commissioners during one of his few remaining updates this past Monday, March 28^th.  The college president announced earlier that he’ll retire at the end of July, marking eight years at LCC and a 40 year career in higher education.  The search for his replacement is underway and the first review of applications will take place on April 9^th.  He stated that he’d like to be available to introduce his replacement to the community and to the Board of County Commissioners.

View of Project Facing South

The approximate cost of the new dorm being built on campus is $1,250,000 and the LCC Foundation has been active in seeking donors over the past several years. Marrin added, “The key item is to have another addition, as the other two dorms that have been planned will be very important to the college’s growth.” He said he expects to have the initial dorm fully funded by completion, expected this summer and ready for occupancy for the fall semester.  Camp and Currell Construction in Lamar was selected as the contractor for the project.

“Registration is set for April 1^st for summer classes and the fall semester and our summer offerings include some new courses including martial arts with akido, swimming classes and welding for women,” he explained.  Marrin reiterated that the welding class is one of the more popular ones offered by the college.  Conversational Spanish 1 and 2 is also available for the summer.

He added that graduation is set for 10am on Saturday, May 7^th and that will be preceded by the traditional pinning of nurses and Antelope Night at the Lamar Community Building on May 6^th.  The college recently hired a new volleyball coach, Dante Geoffrey from Wyoming.  “He’s currently on a recruitment trip around the region,” Marrin explained, stating there have been three applicants for a replacement for the women’s basketball coach as well.

By Russ Baldwin