On June 24, the Kansas Board of Regents approved Wichita State University’s student fee increase, which included funding for the Rhatigan Renewal project.

Students and staff began campaigning for the Rhatigan Renewal in January with presentations, open forums and promotional materials.

The plan to renovate the student center building was approved by the Student Government Association in March and by WSU President Don Beggs in April.

Construction is projected to begin in spring 2011 with a completion date of spring 2014. The proposed plans will renovate approximately 80 percent of existing space, add more meeting rooms and increase ADA compliance.

“We are thrilled that the Kansas Board of Regents has approved funding for the Rhatigan Renewal,” said RSC Director Jim Herrman. “This project is a great example of students, faculty and staff working together to improve our campus. We’re excited and ready to begin this new chapter."