With just a few blocks separating Wittenberg’s picturesque 95 -acre campus and 120 acres of “underutilized” downtown Springfield land, it is natural that city leaders would seek input from students on how to revitalize the community. They got that in a lively campus forum, April 19.

“The synergy created around renewed downtown investment – including a $ 30 0 million regiona l medic a l facility development – is one of the greatest opportunities a community like Springfield can build upon,” said Executive Assistant to the Springfield City Manager Shannon Meadows ’99.

“The Wittenberg market is significant to downtown revitalization and success of commercial investment in the area. It is critical that city planners and local leaders understand the perceptions and expectations of university students when planning for a renewed urban community.”

Meadows, who also serves as interim director of human relations, housing and neighborhood services for the City of Springfield, and Heather Whitmore, Spring f ield pla nning a nd zoning administrator, coordinated the meeting, which attracted more than 60 Wittenberg students, faculty and staff members.