University of the Sciences in Philadelphia

While many changes in and around campus are clearly on display--new sidewalks on Woodland Ave., new steps to Glasser Hall, and a renovated lab in Griffith Hall--there are many other improvements to the academic environment and campus life that go unseen.

“We are always looking for ways to improve and provide the highest-level services to our students, faculty, and staff,” said Patrick Lepore, MS, vice president of the Operations Division and chief information officer. “Through 2008’s advances to our safety programs, buildings and campus, and technology services, we continue our dedication to enhance and develop the academic and social environment of the University.”

For Your Safety
In 2008, the Department of Public Safety made several enhancements to the public safety program designed to provide a safer environment for the University community. The new enhancements included the installation of a state-of-the-art access control system, a new video patrol system, more visible officer uniforms, a 24-hour dispatch/emergency call center, introduction of the Segway as an alternate “green” mode of transportation, and updated awareness and orientation programs.

Additionally, the Department of Public Safety unveiled their newly designed website ADD LINK that provides direct access to the Clery Annual Report, Daily Crime Log, annual crime statistics, and emergency preparedness information. Community members are encouraged to bookmark and check the website on a regular basis for the latest updates in emergency preparedness and community safety information.

National Recognition
The University’s executive director of public safety, Bernard Gollotti, CPP, was named by Security Solutions Enterprise Leader Magazine, as one of the “Smart Leaders” for 2008. In Nov. 2008, the magazine announced “The Biggest and Best – Annual Rankings and Insights from Smart Leaders - Security 500.” Based on data collected directly by the organizations and public resources/records, University of the Sciences was ranked ninth out of the 66 universities and colleges featured in the survey. The University of Penn was ranked first while Drexel was 33rd and Temple 47th.

The American Society for Industrial Security spotlighted a presentation on campus security technologies given by Gollotti at the 2008 National Seminar in their December edition of Dynamics Magazine.

Construction
Changes In & Around 4500 Woodland Ave: In June, the University converted approximately 10,000 square feet of warehouse space in the 4500 Woodland Avenue Building. The results included three state-of-the-art classrooms, administrative offices, a student lounge and a locker room for the College of Health Sciences. These classrooms are occupied by the Occupational Therapy Department. In May 2009, more renovations will continue, including the remodel of three existing classrooms, and the addition of a reference library and conference room to accommodate the Physical Therapy Department.

When fall semester began, the 2008 updates brought an increase in foot traffic to the area. It became apparent that there was a need to create a more direct route for students and faculty who regularly access the 4500 Woodland Ave. Building, Glasser Hall, and the Southside campus. The newly laid path and stairs serve this need and promote a feeling of a single campus environment – more safe and convenient.

Griffith Hall – 3rd Floor Lab Renovation: The project was completed on August 25, 2008, and included the renovation of two freshman inorganic chemistry labs (301 and 307), and a prep room. Included in the renovation were new ceilings, light fixtures, the painting of the walls and floors, and three new fume hoods.

Business Services
B&N Takes Over Bookstore: Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Inc. became part of the University of the Sciences family on June 2.  We contracted with them to operate the bookstore and provide services to the University community. Barnes & Noble is the University’s “exclusive” buyer and seller of all required, recommended, and/or suggested course materials and tools, including books, course packs, computer software, and materials published or distributed electronically, or sold over the Internet.

Technology
Active Campus/Active Admission Project: A redesign of University website, along with moving to a database-driven structure and e-recruitment solution was over a year in the making.  The new site went live in August and development continues.

Online Degree Audit/Advising/Financial Aid Info/Bill Payment: Online services for students were expanded in 2008 to include additional functions available through WebAdvisor. Degree audits can be used as a part of the counseling of students by advisers and as a part of students' self-advising.  Advisors have a web based interface to review an advisee’s profile, test scores, schedule, transcript, and degree audit. Students now have the ability to view Financial Aid information including outstanding items needing for aid processing. Tuition and other payments can now be made online.

Bandwidth Upgrade: The pipeline to access the Internet was increased 30 percent in August of 2008. Current capacity for Internet access is 43Mbps.

CAPS Lab Renovation: The Griffith second floor pharmacy lab was redesigned and overhauled including a technology upgrade of new computers and flat screen video display monitors as well as new furniture that can be adapted to various teaching methodologies.

Wireless Expansion: Wireless Internet access was expanded to include Osol Hall, first floor of the 4500 Woodland Avenue Building, Mayes College, and the Griffith A & C lecture halls. USP has continued to expand wireless coverage yearly.