Dear Colleagues, As you may have read in the news already.... I am pleased to inform you that last Friday, July 18, Purdue University's Board of Trustees approved the financing and construction of a $6.8 million renovation to the east wing of Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering. Often referred to as the "stacked labs," this project is part of the College of Engineering's strategic growth plan and the renovations will improve electrical, climate control and fume-ventilation systems to accommodate the research and educational needs of our growing faculty. Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2015, in preparation for occupancy in September 2016. This renovation project is being funded with repair and rehabilitation funds secured through a University-wide proposal process focused on the University's highest priorities for research and teaching laboratory renovations that resulted in the School of Chemical Engineering being awarded $6.02 million. Thanks to prudent financial planning and careful stewardship of resources over the years, the remainder will come from School funds. It should be noted that this effort will complete the renovation of Forney Hall of Chemical Engineering, a process that began in 2005 - we raised the prior $10.5 million primarily from alumni and friends. After 10+ years and total $17.3 million expenditures, we'll finally be done soon with renovation of the 1940 building! With best wishes, Arvind Varma R. Games Slayter Distinguished Professor Jay and Cynthia Ihlenfeld Head of Chemical Engineering Purdue University Tel: 765-494-4075; Fax: 765-494-0805; Email: avarma@purdue.edu<mailto:avarma@purdue.edu> https://engineering.purdue.edu/ChE/People/ptProfile?id=11068