After years of construction and millions of dollars in donations, students in the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communications are enjoying classes in their newly expanded academic home.

Phase II of the 100,000 square-foot building was completed this summer and features a 180-seat lecture hall, a student-run advertising and public relations agency, an additional broadcast studio and graduate student offices.

The 46,000 square foot wing cost $19 million and was funded by the E.L and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, Ethics and Excellence Journalism Foundation, the Inasmuch Foundation and funds raised by President David Boren and the University, as stated on the college’s Web site.

The new addition offers additional seating and meeting spaces, computer labs and classrooms.

“I really liked the different varieties of seating area throughout the wing because it allows you to find a place that’s comfortable and is set so you can easily talk to others,” said Kali Johnson, University College freshman.

State of the art technology is advantageous for students and will provide them with large advantages, said John Hockett, Gaylord College assistant dean for student affairs and administration.

“The new technology will give students a real world experience and the skills they need to be successful,” Hockett said.

The auditorium will be used mostly for classes but also for screenings of students’ works, guest speakers and future small events, Hockett said.

“We wanted the auditorium that would give justice to student productions like videos and commercials and such,” Hockett said.

The Gaylord College is expanding hours along with building space. The large computer labs have extended their hours in order to accommodate more students.

“I love how the computer labs are open until midnight,” said Daniel Dean, advertising senior. “Students prefer to work in the evening and late into the night.”