By R. David Shew
Even an unexpected rain could not dampen the high spirits for the dedication ceremonies for two Richmond landmarks today.
Dr. David McFaddin addressed the crowd on hand this morning with the official opening of Keene Hall and the Eastern Bypass Pedway. Several members of the EKU Board of Regents, local officials, EKU employees, area media, and local citizens were on hand to celebrate the openings of the remodeled Keene Hall and the Pedway.
Dr. McFaddin stated that student safety and public safety were behind the opening of the Pedway. McFaddin stated that over a half of a billion dollars has been spent on the Eastern campus in the last 10 years. He said that the renovation of Alumni Coliseum was moving forward, and the expected opening date for basketball at Alumni is January 9, 2025. Also, Model Laboratory School will be coming to the south campus in the future, and other renovations to residence halls are planned in the near future.
Dr. McFaddin also told the crowd that 28 years ago he moved into Keene Hall as a freshman, and this day was a special day for EKU. McFaddin also thanked Dr. Robert Martin for building over 60% of the buildings on the campus over 60 years ago.
In addition, freshmen enrollment has grown over 30% in the last five years, and over 600 students will be living in Keene Hall when school opens. Within 48 hours of opening registration for Keene Hall, the dormitory was full. A tour of Keene Hall followed the grand opening.
Check out the full video story on today’s LIVE at FIVE newscast on WBON-TV9.
