Dumb Question

[Gump1947]

I'm new to this site, so here it comes: Where did UA come up with all that money for the new facilities? My son has an offer from the Zips and we were blown away during the summer visit. We're from out of state and don't know much about the area. We are coming for the game tomorrow.

[ZachTheZip]

I'm new to this site, so here it comes: Where did UA come up with all that money for the new facilities? My son has an offer from the Zips and we were blown away during the summer visit. We're from out of state and don't know much about the area. We are coming for the game tomorrow.

Quite a bit of the money for the actual stadium came from corporate naming rights (Infocision, Summa, etc.) The field house came from a very generous donation by the Stile family, I believe, hence the name. There is a misconception that it was all funded by taxpayer money (not a dime of tax money was used) that causes some animosity on the part of the local population, but most of them just can't accept a reality where Akron might actually have something nice.You're not the only one who is blown away by the new facilities. I would guess that about 80% of our entire alumni base has no idea how far the campus has come. It used to be a couple of ugly buildings separated by roads. As you've obviously seen, that is no longer the case. We're hoping that the stadium becomes a way to draw the alumni back, where they will be absolutely shocked by the changes that have taken place.As it is, we're still struggling with a false, but persistent, perception about us being a commuter campus with no facilities and an ugly campus.

[Class of 82]

About nine or 10 years ago, the university issued a slew of bonds to finance a $250-million campus building program for a new student center and rec center, along with several academic, administrative and parking facilities and lots of landscaping improvements. As I understand it, those bonds are being repaid by general revenue and additional student fees (ie., parking, etc.) The Field House and the Stadium also are being funded through bonds, but with the very important addition of substantial donations from local individuals and corporate interests.If I'm wrong, or if I'm omitting anything significant, I'm sure someone will correct me. (LOL... as uakroid just did!)It really is a beautiful campus for being in the middle of a fairly major city, isn't it? What a change from when I atternded, even though it had it's own unique charms then, too.

[skip-zip]

Please allow me to add a little bit to what uakronkid has stated. I moved here 30 years ago to go to college. It was right in the midst of the decline of the rubber industry in Akron. The campus and the city wasn't so much to speak about at that time. Since that time, there has been a major transformation. The city has picked up a ton of techonology, research and health care business. And has transformed the old downtown business corridor into something to be proud of. In terms of the campus, I can assure you that I DON'T EVEN RECOGNIZE the university I attended. Everything has changes dramatically. Recreation facilities, the campus life, the landscape, dramatically increased on-campus residence facilities, etc......not to mention the new stadium. I would have given anything to have what the current students have now. It's simply amazing. As a testament, I decided to stay here after I graduated, and have become an active part of the business community, and now feel so connected to this great community that I will probably never leave. So, if you are looking for a great place to send your child, I think this is a fantastic time to come to Akron. And since you are coming to the game tomorrow....Expect a great atmosphere....We are not a Tennessee, a Florida, or a LSU in terms of the size of our following...but you'll certainly feel welcome here, and have a great time. Best wishes to your son in his quest to find the right college choice.

[Class of 82]

Hey skipzip,Do you remember dodging cars on Buchtel Avenue?The change from the late 70s and early 80s truly is a mind-blower.

[Gump1947]

Please allow me to add a little bit to what uakronkid has stated. I moved here 30 years ago to go to college. It was right in the midst of the decline of the rubber industry in Akron. The campus and the city wasn't so much to speak about at that time. Since that time, there has been a major transformation. The city has picked up a ton of techonology, research and health care business. And has transformed the old downtown business corridor into something to be proud of. In terms of the campus, I can assure you that I DON'T EVEN RECOGNIZE the university I attended. Everything has changes dramatically. Recreation facilities, the campus life, the landscape, dramatically increased on-campus residence facilities, etc......not to mention the new stadium. I would have given anything to have what the current students have now. It's simply amazing. As a testament, I decided to stay here after I graduated, and have become an active part of the business community, and now feel so connected to this great community that I will probably never leave. So, if you are looking for a great place to send your child, I think this is a fantastic time to come to Akron. And since you are coming to the game tomorrow....Expect a great atmosphere....We are not a Tennessee, a Florida, or a LSU in terms of the size of our following...but you'll certainly feel welcome here, and have a great time. Best wishes to your son in his quest to find the right college choice.

I'm also impressed by the quality of the posts on this site. None of the yahooism, name-calling, off-topic posts, etc. that I see on other forums, but still a lot of enthusiasm.

[ziptrumpet87]

Hey skipzip,Do you remember dodging cars on Buchtel Avenue?The change from the late 70s and early 80s truly is a mind-blower.

Ah, the good ol' days...This city and university are definately better than what they were 25 yrs ago! I agree, I wish even half of what they've done was there when I attended.There's also been some talk of the city and the university cooperating on an arena for basketball, but that is probably at least 5 yrs away at this point.

[zip81]

I took my sons on a tour of the campus to show them where Dad went to college.This was the first time in 15 years that I strolled the Hilltop.I couldn't believe how much the campus has changed.

[skip-zip]

82...I remember it well. I think I nearly died a few times crossing Buchtel. Crossing Brown during the middle of the day was also difficult. Luckily, they built the overhead tunnel between Memorial and Rhodes, and you were able to cross through the tunnel insead of freezing your butt off waiting that that intersection during the winter.Heck..the closing of Buchtel after I graduated was a MAJOR move. But now...it's not even the same campus anymore. Amazing.

[Lee Adams]

but they should have left Schroeders...beautiful mahogany bar....coldest beer 'on campus' was right about where that shiny new polymer building is...damn shame..

[GoZips88]

Hey skipzip,Do you remember dodging cars on Buchtel Avenue?The change from the late 70s and early 80s truly is a mind-blower.

I was about 3 inches away from stepping into the path of a Metro bus underneath the old student center. Still gives me shivers. Sure glad all of those roads have been replaced with walkways and green space.As others have said, a TOTALLY different campus and college atmosphere now compared to the mid-80s when I attended. Both of our kids (10 & 14) will be attending UA and can't wait. Dr. Proenza and the rest of the University leadership have done a wonderful job creating a place young adults want to be. Enjoy your visit to Akron and try to enjoy the unique character and charm the dear old Rubber Bowl has to offer. The new stadium is really going to be something. We love UA and hope you and your son like what you see to! GO ZIPS!!!

[ZipAlumn]

but they should have left Schroeders...beautiful mahogany bar....coldest beer 'on campus' was right about where that shiny new polymer building is...damn shame..

Tending bar at Schroeder's every night was how I worked my way through my last couple of years at the University of Akron. I learned almost as much through those late night conversations with Chas as I did in some of my classes. Only one "Dining Hall" for dorm students and it was in the Student's Center when I first started. The University has changed quite a bit over the years (usually for the better) but some of those memories will never fade. :thumb: :rock: :thumb:

[Zipsrifle]

I graduated a little more recently, '99. I was out of school only about 5 years, and I went back to campus after the new student center, rec. center, and closure of Carroll st. I didn't recongnize the place. I really don't recognize the place today. It is truely amazing what they've done to the place. Under president Proenza, UofA has become a major, if the major force of change within the city of Akron and is Akron ever undergoing some HUGE changes right now. UofA is helping to revitalize the downtown, Goodyear is building a HUGE new world headquaters down East Market street and Bridgestone/Firestone is also to start construction of a new North American Headquarters down Main street! Akron is one of very few cities in Ohio that is on the way up!!Here are some pics I took earllier this year:Akron Under ConstructionSummit's Glory - Urban PlacesSummit's Glory - Green Spaces

[UADavid]

I graduated a little more recently, '99. I was out of school only about 5 years, and I went back to campus after the new student center, rec. center, and closure of Carroll st. I didn't recongnize the place. I really don't recognize the place today. It is truely amazing what they've done to the place. Under president Proenza, UofA has become a major, if the major force of change within the city of Akron and is Akron ever undergoing some HUGE changes right now. UofA is helping to revitalize the downtown, Goodyear is building a HUGE new world headquaters down East Market street and Bridgestone/Firestone is also to start construction of a new North American Headquarters down Main street! Akron is one of very few cities in Ohio that is on the way up!!Here are some pics I took earllier this year:Akron Under ConstructionSummit's Glory - Urban PlacesSummit's Glory - Green Spaces

Firestone moved it's North American headquarters to Nashville where it will stay. The construction is for a new technical center. It's still a good thing!

[Zipsrifle]

I graduated a little more recently, '99. I was out of school only about 5 years, and I went back to campus after the new student center, rec. center, and closure of Carroll st. I didn't recongnize the place. I really don't recognize the place today. It is truely amazing what they've done to the place. Under president Proenza, UofA has become a major, if the major force of change within the city of Akron and is Akron ever undergoing some HUGE changes right now. UofA is helping to revitalize the downtown, Goodyear is building a HUGE new world headquaters down East Market street and Bridgestone/Firestone is also to start construction of a new North American Headquarters down Main street! Akron is one of very few cities in Ohio that is on the way up!!Here are some pics I took earllier this year:Akron Under ConstructionSummit's Glory - Urban PlacesSummit's Glory - Green Spaces

Firestone moved it's North American headquarters to Nashville where it will stay. The construction is for a new technical center. It's still a good thing!

Yep, you're right. My bad.

[72 Roo]

Lee, ZipAlum and any others,If you remember Schroeders you have instantly become my best friends. I remember going to Schroeders with friends and having a beer in the afternoon. I'd have one and call it a day. My friends did not see it the same way. My friends did not graduate. What a great place for the university. There was a story with everyone who walked thru the door. Not a place I would want my kids to frequent, but somehow I survived my stops there. This thread started about the transformation of the campus. It is nothing short of incredible. Yet I liked it when I went decades ago. The best part of the situation is that the growth will continue with more resident halls, the finishing of Coleman Commons this Spring, a new education building, a new international business building, a soccer stadium and a new arena all on the books in the next several years.If your son is serious about Akron, it will be a great place to be. You will be proud of your decision. Go Zips!

[MDZip]

You know what is really great about this "dumb question"? It really gives an opportunity to show off the pride in the school now. While some people may have always been proud of the association, for others it was just the only alternative available, the old "Hilltop High". When I attended it was all about money, my parents and I just didn't have any and while I was accepted to a lot of schools I couldn't pull quite enough scholarship money to make it worthwhile to attend, but I did get an honors scholarship to Akron (for anyone that was in the program in the early 80's, do you remember we had a special room in the library we could use, now they have a whole beautiful freaking dorm ). Anyway my point is that despite being at "Hilltop High" the education I got of Akron was very good and an incredible value. I actually came out of college with money. I got my Masters Degree from Johns Hopkins and I do not have anyhting negative to say about them but as far as bang for the buck, Akron was far superior and I've done very well in my life with that degree in my pocket.So there is the real value of the school, however, I am ecstatic about the changes on campus (I got a call for a donation this week and I ante'd up right away ). "Hilltop High" is dead, if it was like this in the 80's I would have wanted to attend instead of just feeling I "had to". We used to have a joke when I was there about Akron being the largest unknown University in the United States. No more! Hats off to Dr. Proenza & co., there are people with some vision. As one last aside, my nephew went to school with one of the current soccer players. He thought he was nuts to attend Akron until he made his own little visit to campus. I tell everyone I can about the University now. It has and will become even more well known as a fine place to go to school. Go Zips! (and now bring back the wrestling team, dammit!)

[zen]

Hey skipzip,Do you remember dodging cars on Buchtel Avenue?The change from the late 70s and early 80s truly is a mind-blower.

I don't know what it was like in the 70s, but even from the 80's everything has changed almost completely.When I was in HS I came to campus several times to visit people. I remember that even though there wasn't any traffic running on it (because of little barricades) you could walk right out of Beirce library on to a city street.And believe it or not, even though it has all changed, after going to bars off of spicer and along exchange, and going to movies in Gardner, it was that (busy happening) urban feel to the campus that caused me to enroll.

[Captain Kangaroo]

I'm also impressed by the quality of the posts on this site. None of the yahooism, name-calling, off-topic posts, etc. that I see on other forums, but still a lot of enthusiasm.

Thanks for the complement. We try pretty hard to keep things on the up-and-up. Zips fans are generally pretty nice, knowledgeable people, so it works out good for us.

[Gump1947]

You know what is really great about this "dumb question"? It really gives an opportunity to show off the pride in the school now. While some people may have always been proud of the association, for others it was just the only alternative available, the old "Hilltop High". When I attended it was all about money, my parents and I just didn't have any and while I was accepted to a lot of schools I couldn't pull quite enough scholarship money to make it worthwhile to attend, but I did get an honors scholarship to Akron (for anyone that was in the program in the early 80's, do you remember we had a special room in the library we could use, now they have a whole beautiful freaking dorm ). Anyway my point is that despite being at "Hilltop High" the education I got of Akron was very good and an incredible value. I actually came out of college with money. I got my Masters Degree from Johns Hopkins and I do not have anyhting negative to say about them but as far as bang for the buck, Akron was far superior and I've done very well in my life with that degree in my pocket.So there is the real value of the school, however, I am ecstatic about the changes on campus (I got a call for a donation this week and I ante'd up right away ). "Hilltop High" is dead, if it was like this in the 80's I would have wanted to attend instead of just feeling I "had to". We used to have a joke when I was there about Akron being the largest unknown University in the United States. No more! Hats off to Dr. Proenza & co., there are people with some vision. As one last aside, my nephew went to school with one of the current soccer players. He thought he was nuts to attend Akron until he made his own little visit to campus. I tell everyone I can about the University now. It has and will become even more well known as a fine place to go to school. Go Zips! (and now bring back the wrestling team, dammit!)

My "dumb question" was to show the impression of an outsider (live out of state, no knowledge of the school, little knowledge of Akron---tires? LeBron James?), with no baggage, good or bad, to bring. Our family was very impressed by the facilities, present and future. This shows us some real determination (money is a big part of that) to build a major program. We were favorably impressed by the coaching staff. The media guide we were given was the best we've received of any school. We were at the BG game---tough loss, no doubt about it, but I think there's some overreaction to a close loss. Of course, we haven't been through the frustrations of the fans. (My impression was a lack of pass rush and exhaustion of the D-line late in the game let a good QB play 7-on-7.) There is a lot to be proud of here, it's up to everybody who cares to get the word out, not just in the area, but in the region.P.S.--We got lost for 20 minutes trying to find the Rubber Bowl.

[zip81]

Lee, ZipAlum and any others,If you remember Schroeders you have instantly become my best friends. I remember going to Schroeders with friends and having a beer in the afternoon. I'd have one and call it a day. My friends did not see it the same way. My friends did not graduate. What a great place for the university. There was a story with everyone who walked thru the door. Not a place I would want my kids to frequent, but somehow I survived my stops there. This thread started about the transformation of the campus. It is nothing short of incredible. Yet I liked it when I went decades ago. The best part of the situation is that the growth will continue with more resident halls, the finishing of Coleman Commons this Spring, a new education building, a new international business building, a soccer stadium and a new arena all on the books in the next several years.If your son is serious about Akron, it will be a great place to be. You will be proud of your decision. Go Zips!

Why do I not know of Schroeders? Was it there from '77 to '81?I remember Wannamaker's over on Perkins...hot spot every Thursday night....that also had a beautiful bar...they ripped the whole thing down.

[MDZip]

My "dumb question" was to show the impression of an outsider (live out of state, no knowledge of the school, little knowledge of Akron---tires? LeBron James?), with no baggage, good or bad, to bring. Our family was very impressed by the facilities, present and future. This shows us some real determination (money is a big part of that) to build a major program. We were favorably impressed by the coaching staff. The media guide we were given was the best we've received of any school. We were at the BG game---tough loss, no doubt about it, but I think there's some overreaction to a close loss. Of course, we haven't been through the frustrations of the fans. (My impression was a lack of pass rush and exhaustion of the D-line late in the game let a good QB play 7-on-7.) There is a lot to be proud of here, it's up to everybody who cares to get the word out, not just in the area, but in the region.P.S.--We got lost for 20 minutes trying to find the Rubber Bowl.

Just wanted to make sure you understood that my use of quotes on the dumb question title was intended to show that I thought it was far from a dumb question, you can see how glad many people were to give some answers. This is a pretty passionate fan base who got a marvelous taste of a championship team a few years ago, and is very hungry for more.

[Gump1947]

My "dumb question" was to show the impression of an outsider (live out of state, no knowledge of the school, little knowledge of Akron---tires? LeBron James?), with no baggage, good or bad, to bring. Our family was very impressed by the facilities, present and future. This shows us some real determination (money is a big part of that) to build a major program. We were favorably impressed by the coaching staff. The media guide we were given was the best we've received of any school. We were at the BG game---tough loss, no doubt about it, but I think there's some overreaction to a close loss. Of course, we haven't been through the frustrations of the fans. (My impression was a lack of pass rush and exhaustion of the D-line late in the game let a good QB play 7-on-7.) There is a lot to be proud of here, it's up to everybody who cares to get the word out, not just in the area, but in the region.P.S.--We got lost for 20 minutes trying to find the Rubber Bowl.

Just wanted to make sure you understood that my use of quotes on the dumb question title was intended to show that I thought it was far from a dumb question, you can see how glad many people were to give some answers. This is a pretty passionate fan base who got a marvelous taste of a championship team a few years ago, and is very hungry for more.

I understood your intent. I'm not a sports forum junkie, I've logged on to several forums from schools that have shown interest in my son. This is the only one I have contributed to, because of the intelligence and passion of the fans on it.I hope some of this passion is directed towards publicizing and promoting the UA program, especially to those outside the local area, especially by those fans and alumni who live outside the area. A 17-year old kid may not know the history of the "old" UA, and even if he does, he probably doesn't care (this holds true for his parents, too). What he looks at is now and maybe tomorrow. I think UA has a lot going for it, the question is, how is it going to use these advantages in competitionagainst other schools. Since I am now living in the middle of the dysfunctional process called recruiting, I understand that coaches can't possibly do it all. (I'm thinking of writing a guide to recruiting for the kids and parents at our high school.)An alert and active fan base should be a big help, assuming that the coaching staff accepts the help (they're nuts if they don't.)