University Briefs

University President Graham Spanier has left the snow-capped mountains of central Pennsylvania -- in fact, he's left the northern hemisphere entirely.

Spanier left Saturday on a two-week journey to South Africa, and is accompanied by Beverly Lindsay, dean of international education, said Steve MacCarthy, executive director of University relations.

Spanier, who was born in South Africa, is making an effort to look at different ways to work with the higher education systems in South Africa, MacCarthy said.

"I know we've got cooperative programs with several South African universities," MacCarthy said, adding that the University is working on advancing their programs with other universities in that country.

When F.W. de Klerk spoke at the University in October, he noted that the University has traditionally supported South African universities. He said it is the American university that is best known for strong relations with South African students and colleges.

De Klerk, former president of South Africa and leader of the National Party, also said he looked forward to Spanier's mid-winter visit.

- by Bridgette Blair

Watts Hall, one of the oldest buildings on campus, will close its doors for at least the duration of Fall Semester 1997 because it does not meet many of the life safety codes that other dormitories currently live up to.

"We don't know how long this project is going to take," said Fred Fotis, director of the Office of Housing and Food Service Operations.

The 117 residents of the hall, which was designed in 1922, will be able to return to rooms in other residence halls in West Halls for the Fall Semester.

"There might be another 117 people in temporary housing next year -- assuming that everyone will return," Fotis said. "But they have first crack of going back in there."

- by Lou Cammarata