The girls cheered and Gena Cowen, girls' dean, smiled as news was announced that the girls' dorm at Gem State Adventist Academy would be refurbished. After more than 40 years of living, laughing, sharing and friendship, the home to hundreds of girls is being brought back to its earlier splendor.
More than 25 volunteer alumni and friends of the school have pledged their time, skills and resources to make the project possible. Jeff Wade, owner of Precision Builders, has spent countless hours heading up the construction end of the project. Linda Klinger, Gem State development director, is raising funds and finding volunteers. Principal Mike Schwartz spent some of his summer vacation working in the woodshop on new vanities for the dorm. “It’s exciting to see the improvements being made, especially as we look forward to a growing dorm population," said Cowen. "I’m excited to see the girls' faces when they see the 'new' dorm.”
Ben Qualls takes time to help with the project.
Jeff Wade of Precision Builders applies texture to the walls during the renovation of the girls' dorm.
Ben Leake installs a new light switch in a dorm room.
