(AP) — The Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences is in the first phase of a $60 million, five-year expansion plan.

It’s a step forward for a university that is recovering from controversy. In 2009, its then-president, Karen Pletz, was fired and several administrators resigned. Pletz was charged with embezzling and other financial crimes, and she committed suicide in November 2011.

All litigation involving the school and Pletz has been settled.

Two months ago, a project began to convert an auditorium into an academic center. Projects proposed for the future include upgrades of several other facilities, including offices in the Strickland Education Pavilion and classrooms in Smith Hall.

The university’s CEO, Marc Hahn, says he also plans to strengthen the school’s relationship with the community.