Gibble Auditorium, one of three lecture facilities on campus, underwent renovations to meet new academic and performance standards. The auditorium was originally a phase of the Science, Mathematics and Engineering Center (SMEC) project that was delayed because of scheduling and timing. Mark Zimmerman, director of Facilities Management, said it was noted during the programming phase of the SMEC project that there was a need for an improved lecture and event space.

Gibble was originally built in 1965 and is located in Esbenshade Hall, in the wing for the Masters Center for Science, Mathematics and Engineering. Zimmerman said the venue is primarily used as a lecture space but thinks that with the improved sound, lighting, atmosphere and acoustics, the venue will attract and support more event-oriented programs.

Gibble also serves as a venue for movies, lectures and Mad Cow Improv shows.

The SMEC project encompassed a three-phase plan that started during the summer of 2012. Phase one of the project included the addition of upper ceiling acoustic clouds, lighting and sound, mechanicals and fire suppression. Zimmerman said that phase one of the project was the most time consuming because scaffolding had to be installed over the entire seating area to access the ceiling of the auditorium mezzanine, and then removed when the phase was complete. Phase one was completed in the fall of 2012, which heralded phase two during the summer of 2013.

Phase two involved the demolition and painting of the auditorium. It also involved the installation of wood paneling, carpet, concrete, seating, railing, the stage, three projection screens and curtains. In addition to those repairs, phase two also included improved LED lighting, video and sound. The entire Facilities Management team was involved in the design process and the renovations. Zimmerman said they utilized a hybrid construction approach which allowed for their electricians, carpenters, painters, student work crews and HVAC technicians to work alongside outside contractors and Information and Technology Services to make improvements.

Zimmerman said phase two of the project was completed in August of 2013, and that the final product is very similar to the actual blueprints created before the start of the renovation. He also added that only minor changes were made during the construction. Phase three of the construction will launch over winter break and will include highlighting and accenting the entranceways on the first and second floors, and adding donor walls and plaques.

Overall, the monetary gifts given by generous donors helped reconstruct Gibble Auditorium into a brand new, functional space. Zimmerman said, “We took an institutional space of the 60s and transformed it into a state-of -the-art lecture room that can support many functions and events. The space is now pleasant and inviting to be in, which makes it more conducive for learning.”