NMCC’s Rodney Smith Wellness and Akeley Student Center Grand Opening [VIDEO + PHOTOS]

The two year journey for the Rodney Smith Wellness and Akeley Student Center is almost at an end save some displays with historic information and some landscaping.

The doors to the Wellness and Student Center open officially this Thursday at 5:30pm. The facility will be open weekdays from 5:30p-7p and weekends 9a-1p.

Former students, board members, and representatives of Senator Susan collins as well as Senator Angus King spoke about how these facilities are not only good for the students, but also the community. They thanked Mary Smith for her generous donation; without her and other local businesses, this venture would not have been possible.

In an effort to create a lasting tribute to those who were most influential and most dear in Mary smith’s life, two plaques were dedicated to Rodney Smith, and Robert and Hope Akeley.

Support for the $6.4 million project was provided primarily from Mary Smith, a Presque Isle native whose husband Rodney passed away after achieving great success in the semi-conductor industry.

NMCC President Tim Crowley said "This facility is about wellness…combining what we know about nutrition, what we know about our health, and exercise, so that we have a more healthy and competitive workforce."

The facility doors open at 5:30pm 5:30-7p in the evening, weekends from 9-1.