Fountain Hall has now opened after its renovation, and it will soon include a variety of student services in one convenient location. With the start of a new year and the beginning of a new semester, there is a lot more than first day jitters to be excited about. Fountain Hall is transforming.
The building has undergone a renovation to become the home for student support services in a convenient location on campus – the center of Raider walk.
Sharon Miller, a student activities specialist at Moorpark College, described the vision for the project as being based on “pathways for the students.”
“(The) concept was designed with the students in mind, not only a one-stop for all their needs, but as a first stop,” said Miller.
Previously, each department was spread across campus and distributed in buildings such as the Administration building and the trailers next to the Campus Center. Now, the intention is to have most of the student services in one space that can be easily accessed between classes.
In addition, some classes are already in session on the second floor.
According to Executive Vice President Lori Bennett, a variety of classes will be held in Fountain Hall, including math and music.
For the time being, the departments that have found their permanent residency and are open for business include: the Career Transfer Center, the Financial Aid Office, and the Student Business Office.
During flex-week, Feb.17 through 21, the remaining tenants are expected to transfer into the building, completing the transition. At that time, students can expect to find the Counseling Office, Records and Admissions, Outreach Services, International Students Office, Scholarships Office, EOP, and CalWorks.
According to John Sinutko, Director of Facilities, Maintenance & Operations at Moorpark College, the cost of the renovation was approximately $2.6 million.
While Fountain Hall has seen its fair share of transition, this vision has always been an end goal.
“It is officially phase two of the Original Library Reconstruction Project,” said Sinutko via email. “The First Stop/One Stop/Welcome Center concept has been part of the campus vision for over ten years.”
As students acclimate themselves back into school mode, or are starting anew, they can enjoy the convenience and fluidity of Moorpark College’s newly remodeled addition.
