CEDAR FALLS -- A longtime Cedar Valley supporter has left her mark on a University of Northern Iowa project.

Pauline R. Barrett offered the lead gift for the new addition to Russell Hall, the university's hub for fine arts education, and as a thank you university adminstrators requested approval for a wing of the buiding to be named in her honor. The Board of Regents approved the request Thursday during their meeting in Cedar Falls.

"Her gift made it possible to complete this project," said President Benjamin Allen.

The building, which has been undergoing renovations since 2006, is expected to open this fall.

Barrett has also donated to other university projects, including the Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts Center and scholarship programs. She has provided substantial gifts to projects at Allen Hospital, Allen College, the YWCA and Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa.

"She is a special person to the Cedar Valley. There are not many projects achieved in the Valley without her somehow being involved," said William Calhoun, vice president for marketing and advancement. "We are greatful to her for her continued support of UNI.

The Barrett Wing will house the chamber music rehearsal room, jazz studio, jazz recording studio, restrooms and a kitchen.

A dedication is scheduled for Sept. 26.

In other business, the board approved the following:

University budgets totalling nearly $4 billion. The University of Northern Iowa unrestricted general fund budget will grow by about $11 million to nearly $172. The university's total budget is about $318 million. The University of Iowa's general operating budget will grow by about 6 percent bringing the total, including University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, to $1.5 billion. Of that, about $5.9 million is earmarked for the university. Iowa State University's budget will grow by nearly 8 percent, bringing their general university budget to $519 million.

The installation of a fire sprinkler system in Dancer Hall. The project is expected to cost about $2.4 million. A similar project also is planned for Bender Hall. The project will be financed through residence system improvement funds.

New windows for the president's home and garage. The project will cost about $70,000 and is expected to improve the home's energy efficiency. This project will be paid for through deferred maintenance bonding funds.

Contact Emily Christensen

at (319) 291-1570 or

emily.christensen@wcfcourier.com