MATT DRISCOLL: NEW TO THE UWT SCENE >>>

Next week, when UWT students report for their first week of autumn quarter classes, there will be a shiny new building for them to kick it in. While the building probably wont be appropriate for keg stands or toga parties â€" two things UWT could definitely use more of â€" it will make for a drastic improvement to campus life at the University of Washington’s Tacoma hub.

The new William W. Philip Hall will officially open on Tuesday, Sept 23. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 10 a.m. that morning. According to a press release sent out by the UWT this afternoon, “The new William W. Philip Hall, which accommodates 300 to 500, provides a venue for lectures, concerts, banquets and student activities, and will also be available for community events.”

In case you were wondering, that’s 300 to 500 people. Previously the largest building on the UWT campus was Carwein Auditorium, which has a capacity of 162.

The building’s namesake, Bill Philip, was a major player in getting the UWT campus up and running. According to the press release, “Philip played a seminal role in getting the UW Tacoma campus established, sited and supported by the South Sound community. When UW officials were seeking a location for the campus, Philip encouraged them to consider downtown Tacoma and helped arrange real estate option to keep land and building acquisition costs down. He has chaired or been the key volunteer for each of UW Tacoma’s fundraising campaigns, and currently serves on the university’s Development Committee.”

Ray Tennison, chair of the UW Tacoma Advisory Board had this to say about Philip in the press release:

“Philip Hall is an important new building for the entire region and a highly visual, permanent tribute to an individual whose generosity of time, finance and leadership transformed the quality of life in this city.”