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09/14/2012 05:37 PM

Excitement About New Facility at College at Brockport

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A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the official opening of the Special Events Recreation Center at the College at Brockport.

The facility, also called the SERC, took nearly two and a half years to construct after ground was broken in April 2010. The 160,000 square foot center is three stories tall and includes an indoor track, fitness center, dining and retail space and multipurpose rooms.

"It's difficult for me, frankly, to envision anything that can be a bigger catalyst for transforming this campus into the model we see, a model of a comprehensive college for the 21st century than SERC," said Dr. John Halstead, College at Brockport president.

The SERC was built to be energy efficient at a cost of $44 million. Besides recreation and athletics, the facility is a venue for concerts and community events.

"People will look at this center, they'll see the LEED certified, the multiple services it provides, but most of all I think it speaks to partnership, what we can do as a system, as a campus and a state legislature and private funders to make something like this happen," said Dr. Nancy Zimpher, SUNY Chancellor.

Students say they're in awe of this brand new, state-of-the-art facility. They believe it will help enhance the on campus experience.

The SERC gives them a wide range of options for working out and other activities. Students say it makes going to the gym a more enjoyable experience.

"It's pretty common now for kids to say 'let's go to the gym.' Having a nice facility like this motivates kids to get out and be active," said Josh Brubaker, junior.

"I enjoy coming to the gym, it gives me like a boost of energy. I'm doing better in school too so that's great," said Micalla Gadawski, senior.

Beginning next spring, the SERC will be the new location for commencement ceremonies, not only for the College, but also nearby Brockport High School.