Bailey Center renovations coming to close, despite setbacks

August 11-17, 2014

After a summer filled with renovations and updates that include new carpeting, air conditioning, and workstations to accommodate the entire alumni and development staff, the Bailey Alumni and Friends Center at UALR is near the end of construction. In late July, a pipe burst pushing back the Aug. 1 date for the official reopening of the center, as flooding ensued. Luckily none of the historical pieces on display were affected, and progress is underway to repair the water damage.

New additions to the center include the 1949 Junior College Rose Bowl trophy won by the Little Rock Junior College football team.

The display cases have been updated, with different sections devoted to the three eras of UALR history — Little Rock Junior College, Little Rock University, and UALR. Also on display is “Some Fine Horses,” a painting by Donald Montileaux from the J. W. Wiggins Native American art collection of the UALR Sequoyah National Research Center. Artwork by UALR alumni Dan Thornhill and Emily Moll Wood is also on display.

Due to loss of storage space in Engel Hall, the center is scaling back on the size of events offered in the past.

The Bailey Center will offer maximum seating of 60 in Engel Alumni Hall using round tables only. The patio is also available with new cushions and umbrellas for the patio furniture. The capacity in Nelson Boardroom remains the same, with seating for 22 around the table.

Constructed as one of the premier alumni centers in the country, the Bailey Alumni and Friends Center provides a remarkable venue for gatherings. It has been host to many board meetings, community events and company retreats since opening in 2001.

The staff hope to see the completion of the space in time for the annual Burgers at Bailey celebration which occurs every August on the lawn outside of the Center. Derek Boyce, director of annual giving and alumni membership was enthusiastic about the renovations and gearing up for an upcoming school year, saying: “I would like to encourage all UALR Alumni and Friends to visit the newly renovated Bailey Alumni and Friends Center. Call ahead for a special VIP tour of the building and campus, 501-683-7355.” 

For updates on the center and alumni events coming up in the fall, visit: http://ualr.edu/alumni/. 

Source: UALR Communications