FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Northfield, Minn. (September 19, 2008) – The Preservation Alliance of Minnesota (PAM) has given Ben Pomeroy Student / Alumni Learning Center a 2008 Minnesota Preservation Award. Miller Dunwiddie's renovation demonstrates how a creative approach to adaptive reuse can preserve historically important buildings while meeting current and future needs.

Originally constructed as a dairy barn in 1907, the building saw nearly 90 years of use. Yet by the 1990's it had become outdated and was eventually 'mothballed' to await an uncertain fate. In 2003, the College of Veterinary Medicine took an interest in the unique opportunity rehabilitating the barn might provide. Through a collaborative effort, the architect and college envisioned a new program, one that leveraged the meaning of the barn while creating a modern learning environment. The restored exterior faithfully recalls the building's historic appearance, using modern glazing, durable materials, and careful attention to detail. The interior showcases historic displays while providing functions ranging from academic services to high-tech classrooms to commons and gathering spaces. These spaces enrich and enhance the experience of students, faculty, and staff. The result is a place that has become a campus destination and that will continue to share its historic legacy.

PAM is the only statewide, private, non-profit organization advocating the preservation of Minnesota's historic resources. Each year, PAM bestows preservation awards to recognize outstanding individuals, organizations, and projects that exemplify the Alliance's mission of preserving, protecting, and promoting Minnesota's historic resources.

Since 1963, Miller Dunwiddie Architecture (www.millerdunwiddie.com) has been helping clients nationwide shape and preserve the built environment. Today, the firm offers a complete suite of solutions including architecture, historic preservation, interior design, construction services, and design visualization. Miller Dunwiddie’s clients span a wide variety of industries, including transportation, public sector, education, housing, retail/commercial, religion, and healthcare.