University of the District of Columbia Natatorium Grand Opening Announced
WASHINGTON, DC – The University of the District of Columbia is proud to announce the grand opening of the brand new, state-of-the-art, Natatorium in the Sports Complex (Building 47) on Monday, November 26th at 11:30 a.m.
The event will include a ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication, speeches by University President, Dr. Allen L. Sessoms, Vice President for Real Estate, Facilities Management and Public Safety, Barbara Jumper, and Director of Athletics, Patricia Thomas, as well as a tour of the facility.
"Having our Natatorium back in operation is a great benefit for our students and the community," University President, Dr. Allen L. Sessoms said. "Our student-athletes, faculty, staff, and student body deserve a quality facility in which to train, and we encourage our community to come experience what we have to offer."
The Natatorium features a 25-yard pool with six lanes, a separate diving well with a 1-meter diving board, a spectator grandstand, offices and locker rooms. Students, faculty and staff of the University of the District of Columbia Flagship and Community College campuses may use the facility at no cost. Individuals not belonging to the University may use the Natatorium during designated hours through purchase of a 20-use pass for $100 or a daily use pass for $7.
According to Vice President Jumper, the project initially only called for a repair of the pool's existing mechanical system and some interior upgrades, but in order to ensure the most beneficial return on the University's capital investment, the project was enhanced to include replacing the pool's antiquated mechanical system.
"The Office of the Vice President for Real Estate, Facilities and Public Safety is pleased to have played a role in re-opening one of the University's more popular amenities," Jumper said. "Over the past two years, the facility has undergone a comprehensive renovation. This project is considered to have resulted in developing a space that better reflects the University's position as a premier flagship institution in the nation's capital. With the renovation completed, the facility can return to being a critical part of the academic program as well as a valued community asset."
Lauren Fuchs was announced as the Aquatics Director on September 17th, 2012. For membership information, hours of operation, rules, regulations and other information please visit: http://www.udcfirebirds.com/information/CampusRec/aquatics