“It is important to us to provide first-class housing for as many students as wish to take advantage of it.” – WPI President Dennis Berkey, during groundbreaking ceremonies for a new residence hall near Gateway Park.

Irene Berner, with more than 20 years of experience in developing and managing biomanufacturing processes and programs, has been selected as the BETC director. Daniel Mardirosian will be he center’s senior operations manager.

WPI recently received a 2011 Urban Design Award from Preservation Worcester. During the nonprofit’s annual meeting, WPI was recognized for working to keep Gateway Park’s construction compatible with the older structural landscape of Wheaton Square. WPI President and CEO Dennis Berkey was on hand to accept the award.

Beginning the next phase of growth at WPI’s Gateway Park, community leaders gathered on April 21 to break ground for a $32 million, four-story facility that will house new laboratory, educational, and office spaces for a range of academic and corporate uses.