Torch News Briefs February 29, 2012

No Torch next week

Due to Spring Break recess, the next issue will be published March 14.

Trustees approve renovations at GRCC

Ferris’ Board of Trustees approved $1.4 million in funding for a Molecular Diagnostics Lab renovation project at Grand Rapids Community College.

The project was approved during a special meeting of the trustees on Feb. 24. The university expects design and preconstruction services to begin in May 2012. The Ferris space includes a classroom for 32 students, a 16-station laboratory and several support rooms including a prep room, a specimen room, a dark room and a small locker room. Students are expected to begin at the Grand Rapids campus in fall 2012.

FSU Board of Trustees approves purchase

Ferris Board of Trustees approved an agreement for Grand Rapids hotelier Suburban Inns to purchase the Ferris-owned and operated Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference in Big Rapids.

Ferris has owned the hotel since construction was completed in 1990. Suburban Inns plans to invest more than $4 million for a full-scale remodel of the 118-room property that should be completed by the beginning of 2013.

The renovation will include updated guest rooms, remodeled public areas, new meeting and banquet facilities and a renovated pool and fitness area. Suburban Inns also plans to introduce its popular restaurant concept, Big E’s Sports Grill, to replace the Benningan’s currently on the property.

Fifth Annual Student Energy Poster Competition

The Ferris State University Michigan Energy Conference is holding the Fifth Annual Student Energy Poster Competition.

Every current FSU student is invited to create a poster highlighting any topic related to energy. Students may enter as an individual or as a group (no larger than five). Cash prizes will be awarded to the top five individual posters and the top five group posters.

Online registration at www.ferris.edu/mec must be completed by 5 p.m. March 19. Posters must be submitted to the Dome Room in the Rankin Center between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. on March 28.