Shippensburg University unveiled the new downtown location for its Centers for Excellence, located at 29 E. King Street, on April 30. A ribbon cutting ceremony marked another step in Ship’s efforts to enhance the connection between the university and the local community. The new space is now the home of the Charles H. Diller Jr. Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation, The Mr. and Mrs. Milton K.Morgan III Makerspace and the Center for Land Use and Sustainability (CLUS).
“The relationship between the university and the community in which we live is vital, and the SU Centers for Excellence provides greater connections between campus and the local community,” said Shippensburg University President Laurie A. Carter.
The Diller Center works to improve awareness of entrepreneurship as a career choice for students by creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem that allows members to cooperate with and participate in the entrepreneurial projects of the campus community. The center is accompanied by the new makerspace that will enhance the entrepreneurial experience and resources.
For nearly two decades, CLUS has worked to foster healthy, vibrant and sustainable communities through applied research, experiential learning opportunities for students and interdisciplinary, cross-sector partnerships. The new location provides the center greater integration into the region they serve.
Shippensburg Borough Mayor Kathy Coy was excited to welcome the centers, staff, students and faculty to the new space.
“Embracing these young students is vital for their success and our community. I welcome the centers to the downtown business district and am anxious to continue conversations on additional expansions into our community,” said Coy.