Pointer Battalion's Leading Lady
Since 1977, the Department of Military Science has always had the constant presence of two things that go hand in hand: blueprints for a new location and a warm smile from office manager Judy Yenter.
Early in her career with UWSP, Yenter brought her ideas to the table for a new military science building that was being planned on campus. The Pointer Battalion had been housed in the Student Services Building since 1972, one of oldest buildings on campus and far from most other classrooms.
Finally come this fall, the program will be nestled into its $1.9 million, 10,000-square-foot custom-designed space, complete with offices, a 32-seat classroom, a 10-seat tactical laboratory, a student computer lab, secure storage space and joint-use general building storage.
Located on the north side of the Health Enhancement Center, the new space–funded almost entirely by state dollars–is not just about the cosmetic look and feel.
"Our new building will give ROTC higher visibility on campus," said Maj. Rob Kehoe, the program's executive officer who designed the layout concept. "The cadets will feel more integrated with the rest of the student body, and it will offer advanced resources for cadre and cadets."
ROTC recruitment has also been influenced by the new building, according to Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Gano who works in recruiting operations. "Today's Army is the best trained and best equipped service in the world," he said. "With our new facility, we have a space that reflects our nation's commitment to providing the very best for our soldiers and future leaders."
Throughout Yenter's 34 years, new commanders came–a total of 17–and went, but her initial ideas remained. "There were always plans for a computer lab, even early in the discussion, but the final size of the lab is much larger than what we drew up originally."
In the end, it was Yenter who organized the look and feel of the project. From coordinating the colors to selecting the office and lounge furniture, she saw her vision through to completion.
"With so many other university priorities," Yenter said. "I never thought it would really happen, but we are all thrilled it did."