Wisconsin State Legislature approves funding for replacement of Cofrin Library

On June 8, 2021, the Committee on Joint Finance of the Wisconsin State Legislature approved $96,297,000 in funding for the removal of the current Cofrin Library to be replaced with the new Cofrin Technology and Education Center.

This is the first state-funded UW-Green Bay major academic capital project to proceed to this point in the budgeting process in more than 20 years (the most recent being Mary Ann Cofrin Hall, dedicated in September of 2001). If the full legislature approves the building and the budget is signed by Governor Evers, we will complete the process to have the building funded. Timing for final approval could come in the next few weeks.

In addition to the Cofrin Research Center, the committee approved:

• $247,500 annually of tribal gaming funds for the First Nations Studies Program. $109,300 annually of tribal gaming funds for two years was approved for STEM Camps for Oneida students.

In a memo to faculty and staff, Chancellor Alexander thanked UW System, President Thompson, the Board of Regents, the Wisconsin Legislature, the Oneida Nation, and Governor Evers for their support of UW-Green Bay.

“There are also many internal people and community advocates that worked tirelessly over several years to get us to this point. These projects represent the future of the University,” Alexander said. “They are forward-thinking, fully connected to our region, welcoming to all, and will support learning, collaboration, and research. UW-Green Bay has momentum that is undeniable.  We continue to grow through recruitment and retention efforts, we are fiscally sound, and we have a mission and vision that is resonating with our community. I appreciate everyone across the state who recognizes the potential of UW-Green Bay to support the economy and quality of life in the 16-county footprint we proudly serve, and I look forward to the next steps in the process.”