CONWAY, Ark. (August 2, 2012) - Covington Roofing of Conway has embarked on the first phase of a two-year project to restore the traditional clay tile roof of Galloway Hall.

Clay tiles are one of the most durable and long-lived roofing materials, according to the National Parks Service.

But they eventually wear out, says Loyd Ryan, director of Hendrix Facilities Management.

According to Ryan, the Galloway roof tiles are more than 50 years old and have begun to flake and leak in recent years.

"This first phase entails removing the old tiles on the west side of the building, inspecting and replacing where necessary any of the wooden decking underneath, replacing flashings and the waterproof membrane, then installing new clay tiles," Ryan said. "We are trying to work around the normal activity in the building."

Galloway Hall is the oldest dorm on campus constructed specifically for women students. It was dedicated in 1933, the same year that Hendrix merged with Galloway Women's College, and the hall is named for that institution.

Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is a national leader in engaged liberal arts and sciences education. Hendrix was named the country's #1 "Up and Coming" liberal arts college for the third consecutive year by U.S. News and World Report. Hendrix is featured in the 2011 edition of the Princeton Review as one of the country's best 376 colleges and is listed in the 2012 edition of the Fiske Guide to Colleges as one of 25 "Best Buy" private colleges included. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist Church since 1884. For more information, visit www.hendrix.edu.