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April 18, 2007

Groundbreaking for new university residence another successful community effort

City, government and chamber officials, University of Louisiana at Monroe representatives, and more than 75 community members attended a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday, April 18 at 10 a.m. for the new university residence, which will be located at 4508 Bon Aire Dr.

At the groundbreaking, Betty Cummins, president of the ULM Foundation, acknowledged the project’s supporters, the private funds they raised, and the inevitable positive result for ULM students, faculty and staff. “In an overwhelming way, this community has been more supportive than I can express.”

ULM President James Cofer recalled being impressed at being invited to the new president’s home during his college days at Mississippi State University.

“It is something special to be invited to the president’s home,” Cofer said. “This is a community resource, a university resource. We can entertain here and recognize faculty and staff. Deborah and I will be the first to live here, but we will certainly not be the last. This is also a gift to future university presidents.”

On March 21, Cummins announced the Foundation's plans to construct a $1.4 million on-campus residence to be occupied by the ULM president.

The residence, composed of both public rooms and private quarters, will provide a venue for events recognizing ULM faculty, staff, students, friends and donors, Cummins said. The new home is scheduled for completion within approximately one year.

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