Child development facility dedicated

Dedication ceremonies were held in May for the new $1 million School of Human Sciences Child Development and Family Studies Center.

Located on College View Street between Humphrey Coliseum and Aiken Village, the single-story, red brick structure was made possible by a long-term, interest-free loan from the Christ Is Our Salvation Foundation of Memphis, Tenn. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Piper established the foundation in 1952 and, since 1994, have supported a student loan program at MSU.

The Pipers have spent five decades in diverse manufacturing ventures ranging from farm machinery to plastic containers. During this time, they also have provided numerous contributions to improving the quality of life for children and families.

(Left to right) Shirley Hastings, head of the School of Human Sciences, President Emeritus Donald Zacharias, President Malcolm Portera, and benefactors Katy and Paul Piper help dedicate the new Child Development and Family Studies Center on campus.

Opened in January, the 9,000-square-foot center houses the university's infant/toddler and child development programs. As many as 100 children between the ages of 6 weeks and 5 years can be accommodated.

Staffed by full-time professionals, the center serves as a teaching laboratory for academic majors in human development and family studies, as well as in foods, nutrition, and dietetics. Students in social work, counselor education, and educational psychology also use the facility.

Among other areas, the building provides six classrooms for the attending children, a conference room, and an institutional kitchen. Outside are two fully equipped playgrounds.

Future expansion calls for a wing devoted to senior citizens that would serve as a laboratory for students in the life sciences school's gerontology concentration.