Campus News

Simpson Community Leaves its Mark on new Campus Center


About 200 people took advantage of a gorgeous, sunny day to make their mark on a building that is expected to have a huge impact on the Simpson College campus.

Representing all aspects of campus life, from students to alumni, they signed the last steel beam that will be part of the new Kent Campus Center.

Some simply autographed the 25-foot, 700-pound beam. Others wrote personal messages.

The idea was to make everyone feel as if they have a stake in the Kent Center, which is expected to open next October during Homecoming weekend.

“We wanted to make sure that they all had a chance to feel like this is truly their building,” said Rich Ramos, the assistant dean of students.

Ramos said it’s often a tradition for construction workers to sign the last beam, “so that’s where we got the idea.”

When completed, the $14 million Kent Campus Center will have 54,000 square feet and will feature several amenities, including an Au Bon Pain restaurant and Red Mango, known for its smoothies and frozen yogurt.

Ramos said the work “is a little bit behind” schedule, “but the construction company and everyone feels like we’re going to get to where we need to be.”

Days like Tuesday, which felt more like spring than winter, certainly help.

“Not having a whole lot of rainy days this fall and this summer allowed them to get ahead on the footings, which apparently was one of the bigger issues,” Ramos said. “If it’s wet, they can’t really pour concrete.”

The autographed beam is expected to be placed over the building’s main entrance, on the second level, but don’t expect to display your jottings to future generations. That beam will be covered once the building is completed.

Last Updated: 1/12/12