West campus, community celebrate groundbreaking for new buildings

<p> A new era for ASU&rsquo;s West campus was celebrated June 15 at a groundbreaking ceremony for two new buildings that will help the campus fulfill its mission as a key component of one university in many places.</p><separator></separator><p> ASU President Michael M. Crow welcomed approximately 200 attendees, including members of the Arizona Board of Regents, Arizona Legislature, and representatives of Valley cities, to break ground for a new residence hall and dining facility. Speakers also included Bill Bayless, president of American Campus Communities, ASU&rsquo;s partner in the project. Student speaker David Anaya talked about the impact the experience of living on campus has had on his personal and academic growth.</p><separator></separator><p> The new residence hall, specifically designed for freshman and sophomores, will double the housing capacity on the West campus. The dining facility will enhance social interaction on campus while providing a variety of dining choices.</p><separator></separator><p> Both buildings will open for the start of the Fall 2012 semester.</p>