Nursing shooting site opened as video room

A classroom that was once closed off by tragedy has reopened its doors, bringing together nursing students from across the state.

Room 470 in the College of Nursing ÷ where UA nursing student Robert Flores Jr. shot and killed professors Cheryl McGaffic and Barbara Monroe on Oct. 28, 2002, before taking his own life ÷ has been transformed into a $350,000 teleconference room.

"This is one of those situations that out of the tragedy came a silver lining," said Richard A. Collins, biomedical communications television production manager and teleconference coordinator.

The 1,400 square-foot room seats 60 graduate students, allowing for live presentations and interactions with nursing students at Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University.

The facility's interactive video connection also gives students around the state the opportunity to attend College of Nursing classes at the UA without coming to Tucson.

"It is innovative, pro-educational and it was much needed," Collins said. "Barbara Monroe was a good friend of mine and I can tell you for a fact that she would have been pleased (with the room)," Collins said.

The classroom that once had removable desks and chairs is now filled with four remote-controlled cameras, four video projectors, 30 microphones, top-of-the-line computers and a DVD recording system that makes lectures available for later use.

"The room has been needed for quite

sometime, but the funds ran out (before the shootings)," said Jean Vock, the assistant dean for finance and administration. "It actually worked out great because, while we were waiting for funds, the technology improved."

The plan for the classroom was approved last May and building began in June, giving workers less than three months to renovate.

"It pulled everyone together," Collins said. "Everyone worked so hard and so fast, and it was to pay our respects."

Having the room complete for the fall semester was very important because many classes were scheduled in the room.

"I remember saying ÎI wonder if we're going to make it,'" said public affairs director, George Humphrey. "There was such a short time to get all this done."

The room was closed after the shootings to show respect, Vock said.

There was a degree of hesitance expressed from students and faculty members reentering the room, she added.

"At first it was odd, but now I think it is seen in a rather good way. It is a good tribute," Vock said. "When people come in now, they see it as a respectful tribute," Vock said.

The dedication of the room is still under discussion. It will not be named after the slain professors.

"Other things that were more fitting were named in their honor," Vock said.