Grand Opening showcases student work, renovated Maxwell Hall

The University of Alabama Creative Campus Initiative highlighted student work, the initiative’s new headquarters and plans for the future in a Grand Opening event on May 4, 2007.

Dr. Malcolm Portera, chancellor of The University of Alabama System, and Johnnie Aycock, president of the West Alabama Chamber of Commerce, were among the guest speakers at the event, which included a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially open the newly-renovated Maxwell Hall.

“With the help of Michelle Lee, instructor in the UA College of Human Environmental Sciences, Dr. Lazer [UA associate provost] and I have strived to create a space that offers a physical vision for collaborative projects,” explained Dr. Scott Bridges, director of Creative Campus.

Creative Campus student interns were on hand to discuss their computer portfolios. There were several video and visual presentations and demonstrations of student work inside and outside the historic building.

Student art on display included a model of the proposed Tuscaloosa Riverwalk Memorial to Fallen Workers that includes part of an I-beam from the 9-11 Twin Towers. Another innovative project on display was the prototypes of two bike racks/art racks made from recycled materials.

“Many of the projects done by Creative Campus students will potentially be of use to the wider community. We’re seeing scholarship in action – students are taking a set of skills and knowledge and applying them in other areas,” Bridges said.