WYSO Local News
(2010-01-15)
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YELLOW SPRINGS, OH
(WYSO) -
A ribbon cutting ceremony took place Thursday night at Antioch College to rededicate the historic South Hall on the campus in Yellow Springs. It marks another step towards reopening the independent institution since the assets were transferred from Antioch University in September.
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After the college closed in June 2008, Antioch's campus was quiet and the buildings were empty. Now, the historic South Hall is open for business. Interim President Matthew Derr says the dedication ceremony, in part, is a chance to celebrate the rejuvenation of the campus.
"There's energy and excitement, and a fair amount of dirt and the smell of fresh paint, which is really pleasing to everybody," says Derr.
During the event, there was a presentation on the architectural history and development of the college buildings. Built in 1852, South Hall was first a men's dormitory. Now, it will become the headquarters for the new college. Derr says that photos of the three original buildings line the walls in the gallery of South Hall, telling the story of Antioch's past.
"It really puts you into the mind of where this moment in our history fits into the long and impressive history of Antioch College, and we're finding our place in that right now," says Derr.
Derr says this will be the first ribbon cutting ceremony of many. The next project on the list is the Rebecca Pennell House on campus, and others are in the works. Derr says the college plans to be open for students by September of 2011.
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