Pittsburg State University recently launched a $100 million capital campaign, which includes a $53 million investment to renovate Heckert-Wells Hall and Yates Hall. The university plans to allocate $20 million for these renovations, leveraging existing federal and state funds.
Yates Hall, housing Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science, was built in 1963, while Heckert-Wells Hall, which supports Biology and Chemistry, opened in 1984. These buildings have not undergone significant updates since their construction. Chris Childers, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, emphasized the need for modern facilities to match the evolving educational landscape.
Modern programs in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and other STEM fields require specialized spaces that are currently lacking. Childers noted that students now often have better lab facilities in high schools than those at PSU. The university has begun designing the renovations using initial funding from a federal STEM initiative, and construction is set to begin this year, with completion expected in phases through 2030.
Nearly all PSU students take classes in these buildings, making them crucial to the academic experience. The renovations will create dedicated labs, updated classrooms, research spaces, and enhance collaboration between STEM disciplines. The Computer Science and Cybersecurity lab is slated for completion by Summer 2027.
President Thomas Newsom highlighted that the project aims to enhance student success and align educational facilities with workforce needs. For information on supporting the project, Mary Jo Dancer can be contacted at mdancer@pittstate.edu or 620-235-6127.
