Repository: UIHistories Project: Dedication - Public Affairs Center (UIS) (Dedication) [PAGE 8]

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sity with the General Assembly and the additional funds were approved over the governor's veto in November, 1976. Construction on Phase II, Stage A, began in April, 1977; work on Stage B started in April, 1978. Continued progress on the building enabled the University to use the center for its Crossroads '80 Conference in October, 1980, and formal moves of faculty and University offices into the center began in late September. By January, 1981, the center was open for classes. The contractors were working toward completion of Stage B by the end of January, 1981. Development of performing arts programming began in early 1980 with the appointment of John Dale Kennedy as center manager. First performance in the Auditorium was a sellout starring actor Hal Holbrook performing his acclaimed "Mark Twain Tonight!" on February 20. Today, the Public Affairs Center is an appropriate symbol of a university whose involvement in public affairs has led to a successful intertwining of academic study and service to the community. The Public Affairs Center will enable the University and the Springfield community to grow together in a real "community of learning." DeanDeBolt, University Archivist Description rCan-

jor lectures, concerts, dance performances, jazz concerts, mime presentations, political debates, large conference meetings, theatre events and more for the enjoyment of the greater Springfield community. The stagehouse is equipped with flexible sound and fighting systems. Academic offices and classrooms are located on Level III. It is also home for the PAC administrative office and conference rooms. Abo on Level 10 is the Atrium Lounge, an attractive focus for the interior of the V-wing. Under the skylights and above the Lobby, the area provides informal seating, plants and natural and accent lighting well suited for receptions and small gatherings. Level IV houses additional classrooms and academic and administrative offices. The SSU Preai* dent's Office is located on Level V along n | IMvar* sity Relations and other administrative offioot indud* ing the SSU Foundation, Institutional Research, Vtot President for Academic Attain and Contmtang j ^ B cati Also on this level i§ the George l l r t r e r t i Conference Room.