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The Oklahoman Digital Delivery

By Scott Puryear

Goodwell, OK — Many area residents and former students have been noticing the continuing physical improvements at Oklahoma Panhandle State University and the many changes and building upgrades are due to the leadership of school president Dr. Dave Bryant and the dedicated team of professionals that backs him up.

In January 2003 Bryant became the 14th president of OPSU and in a fast-moving five year period, he has effectively championed the idea of a student-centered environment and all the while getting things done with an upbeat and team oriented management style.

Upon assuming the role of CEO at OPSU, Bryant inherited several internal and external situations that required both immediate and long-term attention and this dedicated man looked at those situations as challenges and opportunities and immediately took charge of addressing them.

Among the first challenges Bryant tackled was the appearance and condition of the buildings and grounds on the Goodwell campus. In short, several improvements were necessary and many things needed to be done.

Based upon an overall “Can Do” attitude for short term matters, as well as sound and structured strategic plans for long term issues, the last five years have seen many improvements, as well as a great deal of growth in the facilities at OPSU. Bryant is not one to take credit for the many accomplishments; rather, he credits his team for facilitating the positive growth of the institution. He gives special recognition to Larry Peters (Vice President, Fiscal Affairs), Dr. Wayne Manning (Vice President, Academic Affairs and Outreach), Bob Scott (Superintendent, Physical Plant), and Bob Rivers (Grounds Supervisor).

The Goodwell campus covers 80 acres and a 2,100-acre school farm is operated nearby. The overall look and feel of the University has taken on a new personality since Bryant arrived. The campus is an attractive one and the lawns, parking lots, athletic fields and golf course are managed diligently and with care.

In addition to newer structures like the Noble Activity Center and the Aggie Apartments, the Science and Agriculture Building (a 30,000 square foot structure with state-of-the-art equipment) is set for use beginning in the upcoming fall semester. A new 40×70 greenhouse sits near the Science and Ag facility.

In addition, many different buildings on the campus — some which have been in service for as many as 50 years or more — have received strong makeovers in both appearance and infrastructure (including roofs, concrete work, painting, windows, wiring, heating and air, plumbing, sprinkler systems, landscaping, etc.).

McKee Library had a major roofing job completed and only recently a great deal of work was done to the steps and the sidewalk in front of the library. On the north wall of the library is a beautiful three paneled mural as well as a plaque honoring World War II veterans.

The Student Union Building is also one of the long standing facilities that will undergo both interior and exterior improvements. Major work to the roof is underway now, as are improvements to exterior drainage. Interior improvements in several parts of the facility are in the planning stages. The structure houses the Cafeteria, the Bookstore, and the Aggie Grille.

The list of improvements that accompanies the new campus structures is a detailed one, and a sizeable list of area residents have supplied a great many positive comments about the overall appearance of the school. In addition, many former students who return to campus for different events continue to praise the building and renovation efforts, as well as the overall campus improvements.

Next year is the centennial year for OPSU and there will be celebrations and events beginning this fall and continuing through Commencement in 2010. The opening event is set for Oct. 25 (Homecoming Weekend) with the dedication of the Science and Ag Building.

As OPSU heads toward the start of another school year, students have more to look forward to than ever before and a good deal of that is due to the physical improvements to the campus that Bryant and his staff have facilitated.

Have you taken a look at OPSU lately?