September 7, 2001 SELINSGROVE, Pa. - The architectural design for Susquehanna University's recently completed Sports and Fitness Center is being honored by the American School and University magazine for educational design excellence. The center, designed by Spillman Farmer Shoemaker Pell Whilden of Bethlehem, Pa., is one of just 30 national Citation Winners among 238 projects to be profiled in the November edition of American School and University magazine. Susquehanna is one of three colleges and universities receiving a top citation in the post-secondary competition of new construction projects. Overall, 40 other post-secondary school projects were judged outstanding. The competition also includes categories for elementary, middle and high school building projects. The 2001 Architectural Portfolio judges commented that Susquehanna's Sports and Fitness Center had a "strong visual connection from inside the building to the exterior. There is an openness in the design that enhances how it fits in with the existing buildings and site conditions." The magazine said receiving a citation is the "ultimate tribute to educational design excellence." The Sports and Fitness Center, comprising the O. W. Houts Gymnasium and Clyde H. Jacobs Fitness Center, includes a 51,000 square-foot field house, six-lane, 200-meter indoor track, four multi-purpose playing courts for basketball, tennis and volleyball, indoor racquetball courts, student lounge and study space, café-style dining, free weights room, whirlpool and sauna. Each year since 1983, American School & University magazine publishes an architectural portfolio of innovative education design and construction projects from throughout the United States, representing some of the best environments for learning. Contact: Sam Alcorn 570-372-4119 #sa/279#