NOBTS Approves New Seminary Building
The New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary trustees approved the construction of a 22,000 square foot building on its campus to support its growing seminary, during an April 14 meeting. The building will be constructed in conjunction with the nearby William Carey College’s nursing school, and the two educational institutions will use facilities jointly.
"This is really a win-win situation for the seminary and William Carey," said Chris Friedmann, associate vice president of operations.
According to Friedman, the classrooms and office spaces in the current NOBTS was becoming crowded because of the seminary’s growth. William Carey nursing school was also experiencing significant growth and subsequent need for additional facilities.
The April 14 plan suggested that the seminary invest $2.3 million to construct the two-story facility, while William Carey College lease the building from the seminary. The seminary will earn a 7 percent return on the investment through the lease income.
The first floor of the building will be used by the nursing school, and the second floor will be occupied by the seminary's MissionLab program, Providence Learning Center and the WBSM-FM radio station.
If the plans succeed, the project will be completed by January 2005.
