Ohio University Southern will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony and dedicate the Bill W. Dingus Technology Center Thursday at 1:30 p.m.

"The fact that the Technology Center is named after him is fitting, because we pay tribute to someone whose vision has always been to serve higher education," Dan Evans, dean of OUS, said. "Dr. Dingus’ philosophy has always been a focus on the future."

The ceremony will take place in front of the Ninth Street entrance. Other activities include music, refreshments, guided tours and mementos of the occasion.

Robert Smith, assistant dean for development, will be the master of ceremonies.

Among the speakers will be Dr. Robert Glidden, president of Ohio University, Evans and Dr. Bill W. Dingus.

The project broke ground in March of 2000. The building will include class rooms, faculty offices, conference rooms and a lecture hall.

This state-of-the-art building will help the school develop programs in computer technology and allied health programs, Evans said.

"I started my college career at the Ironton branch of OU. At the time, classes were offered in Ironton High School," he said.

"Seeing this beautiful building is impressive."

"As the university has grown, we are able to provide the access and education this area deserves."

Michael Caldwell/The Ironton Tribune