SLIR Announces New Computer Lab

The School of Labor and Industrial Relations first opened its computer lab in 1989, thanks to the generous support of IBM. Since that time, many other organizations have supported updates to the lab and the purchase of new computer equipment. Over the past two years, Shell Oil donated the funds for a new projector and printers.

Even with these ongoing updates, the lab had become outdated. Director Curry made the determination that the time was right for a complete overhaul. The computer lab renovation project was announced at the School's 50th Anniversary Celebratory Symposium in October 2006.

Following the symposium, Will Kuchta, Vice President, Organizational Development of Paychex and LIR Alumnus, took a leadership role by making a generous donation in support of the new computer lab. We challenge other LIR alumni to support current and future LIR students by following his lead and donating to the computer lab renovation project. This is an excellent, long-lasting way to give back to the School that launched the professional careers of many LIR graduates.

The semester break was used to install new carpet, apply a fresh coat of paint, install new furniture and computers. The work in ongoing as new chairs, including two "Jenny Chairs," (an easy chair with an attached work surface), and artwork for the walls will arrive in February. These changes have transformed the space from a traditional teacher-centered computer lab into a modern collaborative learning space.

Click here to view pictures of the transformation!