“I am excited by the difference these improvements will make in the Bethany experience for students, and in securing the viability of the college in the future,” said Bethany College President Edward F. Leonard III.

The $6 million gross bond issue netted funds totaling $5.5 million for a variety of campus improvement and maintenance projects, addressing needs in student housing, exercise facilities and classroom space.

Specifically, Bethany College committed to three major building projects: the addition of laboratory space to Nelson Science Center; the addition of a weight room and locker rooms to Stroble-Gibson Physical Education Center; and the creation of a new apartment-style student housing facility on campus, Swede Suites.

Swede Suites

Swede Suites stands in what was formerly a grass lot south of Gregory Hall and east of ASH. Bethany students helped break ground May 2, 2008 at the site.

The new apartment-style residence hall as seen from the east and from the west, across from the new student parking lot.

Nelson Science Center addition

Nelson, near the time it was built. Professor of Chemistry Charles "Chuck" Englund, who taught at Bethany for 40 years, helped break ground in June 2008.

In November 2008, work began on the walls and columns of the addition.

The red-bricked addition will feature skylights; spacious, colorful laboratories; and open entrance areas with windows that reflect the beauty of Bethany's campus.

Addition to Stroble-Gibson

The addition to Stroble-Gibson Gymnasium will add weight room space to the college's current facilities. The steel building frame went up in November 2008, and was completed in spring 2009.

Inside the new weight room, Bethany blue and gold and the Swede mascot grace the walls.