NSU, Connors partnership building for the future

The newly built Connors State College West Campus building sprang to life this week with the start of the spring semester. This building is housed on the Northeastern State University Muskogee campus as part of a Smart Choice partnership between the two.

Jackie Johnson, sophomore at Connors, said she likes the new building at NSUM. Johnson, who is currently pursuing a degree into the medical field, said she is looking forward to the new semester in addition to seeing friends and meeting with new professors and instructors.

Right now, Im getting my classes situated and getting the right books, said Johnson.

Johnson said although she likes the former site located in downtown Muskogee, she is pleased with the new building at NSUM.

So far, everything Ive seen I like, said Johnson.

The 10,000 feet square building is the third building on the campus and includes a child development program, library, faculty offices, and a bookstore.

Sue Chamber, president and CEO of The Greater Muskogee Area Chamber of Commerce, is pleased with the results from the campus.

The Chamber was supportive and excited about the announcement that Connors State College and Northeastern State University were working together to enhance the College experience for students at both schools by making the transition from one to the other smooth and convenient, said Harris.

The bookstore, located in the new Connors building, was abuzz with students contemplating over used and new books, while searching the racks for new campus attire. And invigorated students fill the Commons area at NSUM this week, waiting their turn to speak with a school representative.

Jordan Thomas, sophomore at Connors, said she liked the former downtown site better. Its so much bigger, its scarier, she laughs. I know that once I get situated it wont be so bad.

Dyllon Fite, freshman at Connors, is working towards a degree in Political Science. Currently working on his general studies, Fite said he likes the spatial quality of the new campus, but appreciated the old sites compactness.

I liked the old campus more because it was familiar, and everything was closely situated together. said Fite In time, Im sure I will enjoy taking classes here.

Fite said he plans to attend NSU after finishing Connors.

Objectively, students are pleased with the new move. Students from Connors will have full reign to use the NSUM campus daily during the morning and afternoon hours, as evening classes are only available at NSUM at this time.

On October 15, 2008, Connors State College and Northeastern State University entered a cooperative partnership agreement that encourages students currently attending CSC, and who are about to complete their associates degrees, to make the Smart Choice to enroll at NSU to complete requirements for their bachelors degrees.

The program promises commitment on the part of faculty and staff at both institutions to help students achieve a smooth transition from CSC to NSU as they identify their long term educational goals.

For more information, please call Connors State College West Campus at 918-684-6747 or Rhoda Strode, director of Muskogee branch campuses at Connors State College at 918-684-5415.