Since
its original construction in 1956, the Adron Doran University Center has been
the center for university life at Morehead. Renovation is not unfamiliar to
ADUC- as it has undergone major in change in 1969 and then again in 2005. The
building’s namesake is of Adron Doran, president of Morehead State University
from 1954 to 1977, who is responsible for bringing the institution to
university status.
The
sounds, smells, and sights a construction project brings to a university campus
evoke a sense of excitement for the entire community. It sparks conversation
among students and administrators. Excitement builds as both exterior and
interior progress is made visible, and anticipation builds with each week that
passes, and calendar dates slowly creeping to opening day. New students,
unfamiliar with ADUC, wait to see what kinds of memories will be made here,
while older students find excitement in returning to a place that is already
home to many memories from their college experience.
The
erecting of a new improved university center- one nearly doubling in its
previous size- gives the Morehead community a sense of pride. For me, I see a
state-of-the-art facility waiting to welcome (and welcome back) current
students, but also the future generation of scholars. Not only does this
pristine structure attract potential students, but it renews current students’
pride in their school.
I
have toured the construction of ADUC twice now, and each time I have learned
multiple new things. I only have very vague memories of ADUC, as I only set
foot in the building twice; on a campus tour and during SOAR. Therefore, I was
intrigued on my tour in discovering what former rooms were turning into, and
the extended contents of what was there before. Seeing the placements of new
and improved restaurants, office spaces, gathering rooms, and even a theatre brought
many emotions, such as excitement, anticipation, and anxiousness for their
arrival! All of this was great, but my favorite part occurred when the tour
group made a trip up to the second floor. Step onto the overlook of the first
floor to what is the makings of a sports pub seating area, currently covered in
construction-produced dust, and on the wall you will notice exposed brick. With
intention, the original structure of the Adron Doran University Center still
shows. Evidence of the original renovation indicate efforts of honoring the
past and its traditions, while recognizing that there are improvements to be
made to better serve students. In this place, a new generation of students will
honor traditions, create new ones, and become all that it is to be an Eagle. I
found this aspect to embody what Morehead truly is: a place where humble
beginnings are remembered, traditions are honored, and progress is always being
made.
Sam
Lands’ role at MSU is a facilities warehouser. Working at MSU has actually been
Sam’s entire career! He began working here at 18, and has remained here for 35
years since. Sam has training on forklift operation as well as management, and
worked as a supervisor for 15 years, from 1992 to 2009. He says he eventually
found the best job, which is the one he has now! Sam’s favorite parts of his
job include his coworkers and interacting with students. Sam notes that he
enjoys watching students evolve into people that will change the world. When
he’s not at work, Sam enjoys being a granddad, as well as being active in his
church, lifting weights, and jogging. If he could hang out with anyone for a
day, Sam would choose to meet Jesus Christ. The best concert Sam ever went to
was Hank Williams Jr., when he performed in the AAC in 1980. MSU Facilities
greatly appreciates Sam’s years of dedication and talent he brings to our team! Thanks for all your hard work, Sam! 
