SFA: There’s an app for that By Robin Johnson SFA RECENTLY UNVEILED a free application for Apple iPhone users, and it will soon be available for other mobile devices, such as the Blackberry and Android. The SFA application was developed by the Web Services Department of the Ralph W. Steen Library. SFA Web design specialist Michael Gillen says early feedback from users of the app has been extremely positive, and he has received some great suggestions for improvement, which he plans to incorporate into future versions. “The highest item on our priority list is making the app truly crossplatform, as we plan to roll out the app on other smartphone platforms,” he said. “From there, we will work on adding more content and features, such as new sections for alumni, MyCourses, an improved library research interface and, hopefully, integration with MySFA.” Information currently provided in the SFA app includes campus news and events, online library catalog, campus maps, directory, athletic news and scores, and course information. To download the SFA app to your iPhone, access Apple’s iTunes store and type Stephen F. Austin State University in the search box. ✯
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Chemistry Building receives more than $7 million in upgrades By Robin Johnson AFTER FOUR MONTHS of renovations and safety updates, SFA’s historic Chemistry Building reopened just in time for the start of the fall semester. The $7.35 million renovation budget addressed safety issues and infrastructure needs, including new windows, doors, lighting and restroom upgrades. The project included a sprinkler system for the three-story building, electrical rewiring, new plumbing and lab facility upgrades needed for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Chemistry Building, originally the Science and Agriculture Building, was built in 1938 and is the oldest academic building on SFA’s campus. Designed by Nacogdoches architect Hal Tucker, the building housed the Department of Agriculture and the farm shop on the first floor. Biology occupied the second floor, while chemistry, physics and physical science filled the top floor. Classes being taught in the newly refurbished building include chemistry, biochemistry, and organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry. Renovations included: • Air conditioning • Emergency sprinklers • Plumbing • Electrical wiring • Asbestos abatement • ADA-standard labs and restrooms • Safety showers in each lab • Two vented hoods in each lab • A research lab for each chemistry professor • Air-locked building entrances • Hot water in every lab • Refinished cabinets and workstations • A chemical storage room with digital barcodes for electronic inventory • Energy efficient sensor lights in every classroom and lab ✯ Sawdust