SALEM, Mass. - Salem State College president Nancy D. Harrington told a large gathering of alumni in Danvers June 13 that the college they received their degrees from has a storied past with a bright future.

Speaking at a "Grand Reception" for over 200 Salem State College alumni at the Sheraton Ferncroft Resort June 13, Harrington said the college has always played a significant role on the North Shore. "As we prepare to celebrate the college's 150th anniversary next year, we can look back on the significant role Salem State has played in the lives of people on the North Shore," she said. "And with the completion of our ambitious $75 million Central Campus project, that role will become even more significant," she said. "I urge you to stay involved because great things are happening here and we want you to be a part of it."

Live progress of the Central Campus renovation can be viewed on-line at www.salemstate.edu/central. The project will transform the 37.5-acre former GTE/Sylvania site into new facilities for the arts and business schools. Phase One, which is scheduled for completion in the fall, includes renovation of Building One for the School of Business, the Center for Creative and Performing Arts and Information Technology. Building One will also house academic and administrative areas as well as service facilities.

This new construction will offer alumni, students and other groups state of the art areas for meetings and future events," said Tom Walker, director of alumni affairs. "Also under construction is a 450-bed residence village, scheduled to open in September of 2004," he added. "The renovation and new construction is all part of a $75 million Central Campus project due to be completed in 2004."

View some photos from the Grand Reception [photos]