State Controlling Board Approves $806K in Funding for YSU

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The state Controlling Board on Monday approved a measure that includes $806,247 in funding for improvements and renovations to several STEM science labs in Ward Beecher Hall on the campus of Youngstown State University.

The labs have not been updated in several years, and the university is looking to upgrade them for support spaces to provide a safer, more accessible and updated learning environment with the latest technology and equipment.

Renovations will include upgrades to interior finishes, electrical/lighting, classroom accessibility, classroom HVAC, technology accessibility and laboratory working surfaces.

“It’s important we invest in our STEM labs as they help educate and train our students for the future in order for them to be ready for the workforce and contribute to Ohio’s growing economy,” state Rep. Al Cutrona of Canfield, R-58th, said in announcing the approval.

“This investment will reduce the maintenance backlog at YSU and give our students the level of experience all Ohio’s schools should be delivering,” said state Rep. Lauren McNally of Youngstown, D-59th. “I’m thankful for the opportunities created by these state dollars like safer, more accessible and up-to-date learning environments with the latest technology and equipment. That is how we nurture the minds of the future.”

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.