The People of CSU: Pete Day

Above: Facilities Management team members LaTonnia Landon-Moorer, administrative coordinator, and Vincent Fuqua, assistant facilities director, discuss current projects with Central State University's new director of Facilities Management, Pete Day. Not pictured is facilities manager Angela Davis. Photo credit: Alissa Paolella

As the second semester of the 2023-24 academic year commenced, Central State University's campus teemed with energy and excitement while students returned to pursue their dreams. Amidst ongoing construction activities, the University's new director of Facilities Management, Pete Day, has taken on the responsibility of ensuring that the campus remains a safe and welcoming place for all. 

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Day began his career in repair and maintenance in the Marine Corps, working on helicopters for six years. He then became a maintenance technician and electrician while working toward a bachelor’s degree from Northern Kentucky University. 

“I was working days and taking classes at night,” Day said. “That’s not an easy thing to do, but I was able to knock it out. After that, I had the opportunity to move into maintenance management.” 

Various ongoing projects are taking place on the Central State campus, such as building the new Research and Demonstration Complex and Storage Facility located across from the main entrance on U.S. 42. Other improvements include the Natural Products Lab, renovations of Carl C. Jenkins Technology Education Hall and C.J. McLin International Center for Water Resources Management, a cable and fiber infrastructure project, and upgrades to the bathrooms in Anne O’Hare Williamson Hall. 

In the early days of winter, the University's clock tower stood tall — a symbol of resilience since a 1974 tornado demolished 80% of the campus. The iconic 1906 clock tower was one of the few structures left unscathed.  

Construction teams carrying out repairs on the exterior of the historic tower served as a reminder of the University's commitment to its students, faculty, and staff. The work on the roof was a testament to the University's dedication to addressing issues head-on and ensuring a safe and secure environment for all those who call it home. 

With winter came an exhilarating opportunity for Day to lead the Facilities Management department. Driven by his passion for aligning campus improvements with the University's goals, he embraced the challenge with eagerness and determination to make a positive impact. 

“I’m excited to use my expertise to help organize the department and create a structure and environment where (team members) can use their skills more effectively,” he said.

“There are a lot of different departments at the University. I want to help my team grow and build those relationships, so the facilities department has a reputation for excellence.” 

Day said he had already seen the incredible impact that faculty and staff have on students on campus. Day gathers his team to strategize for the days ahead at the beginning of each week, setting goals and reviewing ongoing projects. 

As students returned from winter break, the Facilities Management team was focused on preparing all dormitory rooms and completing necessary repairs, including upgrading HVAC systems. “We’re getting it ready, so it’s a good standard for a new student to come into that space,” Day said. 

Another focus for the winter is preventative measures that keep the campus operating. 

Prior to coming to Central State University, Day worked in the healthcare, food services, and music industries. Day, planning to return from Nashville to his hometown of Cincinnati, was intrigued by the University’s status as Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University (HBCU). 

“I was looking for a more fulfilling career,” he said. “I want to be a part of the organization that focuses on giving back to the community. When I decided to move, I didn’t want to go back to the normal corporate environment. I wanted to find something more fulfilling in that respect.”  

Day can be reached at pday@centralstate.edu or 937-376-6664.