Fresno State Athletics
Groundbreaking Held For Ricchiuti Academic Center, Duncan Building Expansion
 |  Fresno State Athletics Director Scott Johnson was on hand on Thursday for the groundbreaking of the Ricchuiti Academic Center and Duncan Building expansion. |
March 5, 2004
FRESNO, Calif. - Fresno State's Athletics Department held a ceremonial groundbreaking Thursday for the soon to be constructed Ricchiuti Academic Center and the expansion to the Duncan Building. The $5 million project will begin construction March 8 is expected to be completed in October.
The Ricchiuti Academic Center will provide study tables, tutorial and computer labs, plus new coaching offices for the women's soccer team.
"It is with great pride I stand here today as we are breaking ground on a facility as important to our department as any we could build," said Athletics Director Scott Johnson. "The Ricchiuti Academic Center is going to benefit every single student-athlete on our campus for years to come. We are triumphant, because our expansion to the Duncan Building will be a driving force for the football program to reach another level on the national scene. Our goal is simple -- to be the lead dog in the WAC. We have for many years been considered that on the field of play. We want to extend that and be the lead dog in the WAC academically. For the first time in our history, we have a facility to allow us to achieve that goal."
The Duncan Building expansion will include new coaching offices, team meeting rooms, a new Bulldog locker room and a theatre-style auditorium.
University President John D. Welty announced a significant gift from the Josephine Family that will name the new auditorium the Joe Josephine Auditorium.
Harris Construction of Fresno is the contractor for the project, which will be adjacent to the current strength and condition center.
For gifts or contributions to this project, please contact Associate Athletics Director Randy Welniak at (559) 278-3178.