Southern Polytech-KSU merger official

MARIETTA, Ga. — Channel 2 Action News confirmed Tuesday afternoon the proposed merger of Southern Polytechnic State University and Kennesaw State University is now official.

Channel 2 Action News is gathering details on this breaking news story.

Last week, officials said if the two schools combined, both campuses would be called Kennesaw State. Channel 2's Diana Davis spoke to some Southern Poly students, who said they were upset about the plan, stressing their preference of attending a smaller school. Supporters, however, say the merger will save money.

In addition to protests, some Southern Poly students posted a petition on Facebook, which garnered more than 1,000 signatures.

At last check, Southern Poly police were investigating  how the Marietta school’s iconic giant globe was knocked off its base last Tuesday. “Save SPSU” was found written on the globe.

According to Jim Cooper, the assistant vice president of communication at SPSU, the 10-foot globe broke off its base around 9:30 p.m. Cooper said it's a very important university landmark and sits in a heavily trafficked area.

There are no surveillance cameras in the area and officers are talking to possible witnesses.

The iconic globe was placed in the middle of the student center and administrative building in 1996 for the Olympics.

Watch Channel 2 Action News starting at 4 for live updates on this developing story.

WSBTV