Smart Classroom

Syracuse U Invests $9 Million in Summer Updates to Classrooms, Campus

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 07/05/16

Classrooms at Syracuse University are undergoing renovation as part of the institution's efforts to create "21st century academic and research environments." The project will spend $9 million this summer to update technology and academic spaces in more than a dozen buildings on campus to add cutting-edge equipment and capabilities for instruction and collaboration.

The work in the Carnegie Library, the Center for Science and Technology and other structures is being undertaken by Information Technology Services (ITS) and Campus Planning, Design & Construction (CPDC).

Remodeling will add improvements for accessibility, as well as audio and visual system upgrades, installation of new smart teaching stations, technology overhauls, classroom seating and furniture replacements and set-up of new seminar rooms, meeting rooms and classrooms. The new teaching stations will include interactive whiteboards, projection screens, speakers and USB ports for plugging in devices.

The changes are part of the university's "Campus Framework" initiative, a strategic program intended to "align" its "vision and mission with its physical presence and infrastructure," as Chancellor and President, Kent Syverud, stated in the plan.

The annual round of updates, added Vice Chancellor and Provost Michele Wheatly, is "also critical to attracting and retaining high-achieving students and world-class faculty scholars. The work being done this summer by ITS and CPDC will enhance the student experience, elevate classroom learning and teaching and generate new opportunity for student and faculty researchers."

The improvements will also include upgrades to the networking infrastructure in a couple of residence halls.