NEWBURGH - This fall, Mount Saint Mary College kicked off the public phase of a $10 million campaign by announcing it was two thirds of the way toward its goal.
On December 19th, the college received more good news: its Dominican Center project will receive $1 million in Empire State Development Grant funds, via the regional economic development council process of consolidated funding application.
College president Fr. Kevin E. Mackin, OFM, described the Dominican Center capital project as a "flagship project, to transform a 1927 structure and grounds into a 21st century living and learning center."
He praised Gov. Andrew Cuomo for recognizing that "Mount Saint Mary College is a regional economic engine."
"This construction project alone will be employing around 200 New Yorkers," said Mackin.
Mackin also acknowledged "major partnership gifts" from the Kaplan Family Foundations, the Dyson Foundation, the Dominican Sisters of Hope, the college’s board of trustees and alumni and other friends.
The Dominican Center’s five story, 100,000 square foot primary structure will accommodate a library/learning commons, a residence hall for approximately 156 students, a dining facility, and the existing Chapel of the Holy Rosary. The center is projected to open January 2014.
MSMC’s mainstays of health professions and teacher education will continue to thrive.
"More than 40 percent of this year’s freshmen are pursuing health professions, be it nursing or physical therapy, pre-med, pre-physician assistant, etc.," explained Mackin. "And many are first generation college students in their family. The Mount is definitely an integral part of the community… a sign of hope."
