P.A. Mattson Hall on the campus of Gustavus Adolphus College opened its doors to students for the first time at the beginning of the 2005 spring semester. The hall was constructed as a new location for the education and nursing departments, displaced during the renovation of Old Main. Though the hall is technically deemed an interim academic building, it has impressed faculty and students alike.
Nursing professor Judy Gardner initially expressed fears of leaving behind her old department location atop Old Main, the oldest college building. “I was sad at the prospect of leaving my old office because it had such a fantastic view,” said Gardner. “I was pleasantly surprised when I moved into my new office, however, because it too has a fantastic view.”
Gardner also expressed delight in the much-needed increase in space. She stated that with the move to Mattson Hall the nursing department is on the progressive edge, preparing itself for its proposed expansion next year. “The spacious facilities allow the department to turn its eyes toward the future,” she added.
Linda Elvee, administrative assistant for the nursing department, also expressed her approval of the department’s relocation. “Moving to a new building that is so clean and light is a very nice change.”
“I feel that the increased space and technology will afford students a better experience and environment for learning,” said Will Yackel, senior secondary education student. “For the first time ever I was able to ‘run’ through the halls of the department. It’s nice for the department to finally have a home that fits.”
Warren Wunderlich, Director of the Gustavus Physical Plant said, “this building will serve as the temporary home for the nursing and education department until at some point in the future, a permanent home is constructed.”
The official dedication for P. A. Mattson Hall will be held during the Homecoming 2005 All-Classes reunion for the Department of Nursing October 8th, 2005.
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