September 9, 2002

The UConn 2000 program has earned three awards for the University of Connecticut this year.

During the summer, the Annual Distinguished Leadership Award of the Connecticut Architecture Foundation was awarded to President Philip E. Austin, on behalf of the University and the Board of Trustees.

The award, given annually, honors an individual who has provided an improved environment for people in the state.

Earlier this year, the Real Estate Exchange, a forum for women in commercial real estate, honored the University with the grand prize for "outstanding achievement and impact on the state of Connecticut" for its UConn 2000 projects.

The award, which was accepted by Fred Hethcote, director of capital projects and contract administration, cited several projects, including the School of Business building, the renovation of the former Waring chemistry building into a center for offices and classrooms for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the renovation of the Wilbur Cross Building into a student services center.

The award also mentioned the Center for Excellence in Fuel Cell Research, the Gant Plaza, the Hilltop Apartments, the Hilltop suites, the Marine Sciences Center at the Avery Point campus, and the Litchfield Agricultural Center, located on the Torrington campus.

UConn 2000 was also responsible for another award this year. Last winter, the Energy Conservation Management Board awarded the University the 2001 Energy Conservation Award, commending UConn staff for "innovation in energy-efficiency initiatives."

The UConn 2000 program is estimated to have saved the University, its students, and state taxpayers more than $24 million in energy costs since it was signed into law in 1995.