Construction Update
Small amounts of ledge were detected in the northwest corner of the construction lot on Bedford Street. The ledge will have to be removed via blasting, in order to make room for the underground level of the classroom building. The blasting will start on Feb. 3 and run off and on for two weeks. The blasting will occur between the hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as needed. Proper safety and noise muffling measures will be taken. Such measure include a heavy matting that will cover the site and guard the public from noise and debris. The construction will also require 280 pilings due to marine clay in the lower soil levels. The pilings will provide support for the parking garage. Pile driving will start on Feb. 4 and will continue for up to 7 weeks.
Program to inspire Engineering
The number of students in the U.S. pursuing careers in engineering has decreased by nearly fifty percent. USM and the University of Maine in Orono are attempting to combat this falling statistic. Representatives from both institutions are visiting middle schools and high schools to talk to kids about engineering related careers. This program will educate and inspire students to pursue important and well paying jobs in the field. The program’s methods for doing so include an in depth Power Point presentation, teamwork exercises and a question and answer period.
Second annual Student Business Plan Competition gets underway
Nine student teams are entered in the second annual USM Student Business Plan Competition in hopes of winning $10,000 in cash and $15,000 dollars in consulting services from local businesses. The contest started last year and is open to graduate and undergraduate students. Students are asked to develop business plans and present them to judges for the prize.
Bock appointed Director of Jean Byers Sampson Center for Diversity
Susie R. Bock was appointed director of USM’s Jean Byers Sampson Center for Diversity in Maine. Bock joined the University in 1999 as head of Special Collections. Bock is a New Jersey native who holds a degree in history from Bates and two master’s degrees from Columbia University.