Camarillo, Calif., May 1, 2013 – CSU Channel Islands (CI) invites the public to a celebration unveiling the new Central Mall fountain, Friday, May 10, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Completion of the fountain marks a major milestone in the renovation of the heart of the campus and fulfillment of CI’s master plan. The octagonal, four-tiered Spanish Mission-style fountain stands over 12 feet tall and 32 feet wide. It is encased in decorative, custom-made Malibu tiles as well as replicas of historic tiles found on original 1930s buildings throughout the campus.

“As the centerpiece of the University’s Central Mall, the fountain will serve as a gathering place for our campus and community and as a memorable symbol of beauty for all who visit,” said CI President Richard R. Rush. “We are deeply grateful to the supporters who have brought this masterpiece to fruition and hope the public will join us for the first of many celebrations that will take place at the fountain.”

The fountain was designed by Carl Wesely, a longtime CI supporter and founder of the Thousand Oaks construction and general contracting firm Wesely Thomas. Wesely donated his design and services in helping oversee the project.

The fountain’s 400 square feet of distinctive decorative tiles were a gift from the Adamson family of Malibu. The Adamsons, the builders and original owners of the historic Adamson House – the Malibu landmark best known for its exquisite tile – provided the inspiration and funding for the Central Mall fountain’s tilework.

Completion of the fountain was also made possible by the artistry and generosity of California Pottery and Tile Works and its owners, Sean and Desmond McLean. Pacific Blue Spas & Pools Inc. and its owner, Bob Doman, known for expertise and excellent craftsmanship, served as the primary builder of the fountain and its surrounding plaza.

Under the volunteer leadership of community member Steve Blois and with the help of donors and other volunteers, the Central Mall is being transformed into a park-like pedestrian plaza, ideal for studying, recreation and relaxation, and for hosting campus and community events. The 302,000-square-foot area stretches from the John Spoor Broome Library to Aliso Hall. Once complete, it will feature decomposed granite walkways, abundant benches and lighting, decorative pavers inscribed by donors, rose gardens, and dozens of beautifully landscaped native, drought-tolerant plants, bushes and trees identified by plaques.

The Central Mall renovation is funded through the generosity of businesses, community donors, and many CI students, alumni, faculty and staff. Opportunities still exist to contribute to the Central Mall beautification, including naming of the fountain. Through the University’s “Leave Your Mark” campaign, supporters can “adopt” and inscribe pavers, tree plaques and benches in their name, while also supporting the University’s highest-priority needs. For more information, visit www.csuci.edu/impact or contact Nichole Ipach, Assistant Vice President for University Development, at 805-437-8893 or nichole.ipach@csuci.edu.

The May 10 fountain celebration will include light refreshments and complimentary guest parking. Once on campus, follow signs to the event parking areas. To attend, RSVP to Noheli Viramontes at 805-437-3552 or noheli.viramontes@csuci.edu.

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About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands
(CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research. CI has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to serving students of all backgrounds from the region and beyond. Connect with and learn more by visiting CI's Social Media.

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