A new religious center and a program to help students conduct research may be coming to FAU, according to Boca Campus Governor Ryan Ebanks.

On September 22, Ebanks gave the annual Boca Raton State of the Campus address at Traditions Plaza, in front of the campus book store. He touched on subjects like student government-sponsored events, developing traditions and the two aforementioned new programs he hopes to create on campus.

The first, suggested by the Muslim Student Association, is to create a place for religious services. “They pray about five times a day,” Ebanks said. “It will be a good way to help students get religious support.”

The second, Ebanks said, will help undergrads conduct research, which will help them prepare for grad school. It’s also meant to help retain students. “The students with A’s and good test scores don’t really need a boost. This will help the average student get research credibility and experience to be more attractive to universities.”

Ebanks also related the expanding changes to FAU’s Living Room Theater popping up on Fandango.com, a website for looking up movie information and show times. When he noticed this he said, “I ran through the room screaming with excitement.”

In reference to the new football stadium and Innovation Village Apartments, Ebanks said, “It will challenge students to not only get an education, but create traditions.”

Ebanks commented on SG events, “Boca events are above and beyond, incredible,” and thanked his advisors and SG members. He also anticipates the annual bonfire, homecoming and midnight madness. “These events will become FAU traditions over time.”

These changes are also an effort to excite new freshmen about FAU, he said. “You need to build up on freshmen, it translates to their four year experience,” said Ebanks. “College is a micro-environment where you can get a cultural and educational experience and become more well rounded. We’re investing in students to make them better people in life.”