High spirits and political optimism were reflected in the speeches given at the October ground breaking ceremony for the building, tyhe constuction of which is expected to begin early in the new year and be completed by the summer of 1997. Comments made by key government and University officials stressed the importance of investment in higher education to create professionals with meaningful jobs and the skills with which to ensure that the forest resource is properly managed. FUS President Naomi Wills, and FGS President Keri Nelson each spoke briefly. The new building does not come without its share of controversy, particularly financially related controversy. In addition , several large and small companies and private individuals or organizations have contributed to UBC s World of Opportunity fund and consequently had rooms or scholarships named after themselves.
Funds continue to be obtained currently.
For this reas on, the amount of funding available for certain projects, such as student lounge furniture, is still undefined. This project has not been canceled, however. Neither have the trees to be planted in the atrium, long rumoured to be an on again, off again project. The Greensheet welcomes all submissions on this topic. International Opportunities Update on Forestry's International Programs by Sandra Schinnerl , Asst.