THE DAY AFTER undergraduate commencement is a marked change from the crowds of family and friends that had congregated on the campus to witness to the milestone of graduation. Observers on that sunny and warm Sunday in May would have seen the Hill strewn with smiles and tears as the class of 2010 clutched the tube that contained their Norwich diploma and posed for pictures. They hugged family and friends, had one last meal in the Wise Campus Center and in the midst of the celebration, moved out of dorms on the Upper Parade ground and across campus.

As the day faded to twilight the campus slowly emptied out, as cars with the last of belongings drove away from campus bringing the graduates to the next adventure and a new stage of life. Overnight the University was quiet.

However, for facilities operations, there is no rest as empty dorms signal a time to get projects done. Thus the day after graduation brought a new flurry of activity to campus. Painters arrived to start painting the outside of Crawford and Roberts Hall. Scaffolding surrounded Jackman Hall as repairs on the clock tower and parapet began. Parking around Jackman was diverted as the gate and parking lot will be replaced.

Projects, big and small, happen across campus in different stages throughout the summer. They must be fit in various timelines including the graduate residencies, and summer campus that use Norwich facilities. Planning for the projects is a logistical puzzle.

Several dorms were set for renovations this summer; Wilson Hall was emptied of tired and worn furniture, which will be replaced after the rooms are painted. Goodyear Hall showers and bathrooms will be renovated and work will be completed on Gerard Hall. Alumni Hall will undergo granite exterior touch-ups.

Physical plant upgrades include a new boiler for the Communications building that houses WNUB, the University radio station, as well as compressors and a new sound system for Kreitzberg arena and working on the dehumidification system for the Sullivan Museum and History Center.

Outside projects, some of which are already completed, include a new walkway for Roberts Hall, new exteriors stairs for Dewey Hall and South Hall storm water runoff systems.

Such projects and coordination are necessary to keep the University running efficiently as it balances the academic needs of the students with the proper care of physical space and surroundings.

The biggest construction project on campus is the creation of Doyle Hall, which included connecting Andrews Hall to Kreitzberg Arena and creating much needed space. This facility is still scheduled to be completed in fall 2010.