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Share thisA Student’s First Look at the Golisano Community Engagement Center
By Athalie Fiegl'22 (Communication)
Students and faculty have heard ringing and clanging all over campus for the last several months as the new Golisano Community Engagement Center has been quickly going up. The dramatic arches of the building can be easily viewed from the road and the openings allow a small peek into the interior, giving a rough idea of the building’s features. On March 16th, I was able to get a first look tour to view the progress that has been made on the interior.
The main entrance area is a wide, high-ceilinged room with the arched windows clearly visible. It is easy to picture students meeting up to work on projects or grabbing drinks at the cafe in this open and bright space. Rich Greer, Director of Facilities at Roberts Wesleyan College, explained how he envisioned this being a “family room” area for students to gather. There will also be an outdoor fire pit for students and community members to congregate and enjoy the fresh air and nature’s beauty. The building will also house offices from many different departments. It will be a place where students can come to have questions answered and find direction for their future. A chapel for prayer and meditation will be constructed at the top of the stairs, creating a space of solace among the demands of everyday life.
Ryan Zegarelli, SWBR Project Architect, explained how part of the vision behind incorporating the arches is that it creates a physical image of how the Center is a bridge between students, resources, and the community. President Deana Porterfield also emphasized how this building is a connecting point between Roberts and the City of Rochester. Lastly, the arched windows reflect the arch that students walk through during student orientation and again once they graduate. It is a symbol of accomplishment and connection.
The building will truly be a community center, incorporating aspects of play, work, and rest. The main area will house a ping-pong and foosball table, encouraging students to gather and have fun. The cafe will be a place where people can grab a drink and catch up. The offices will be filled with people working to make a positive impact on the campus and the wider community. Within the serene walls of the chapel, the bustle of life can be stilled, and peace can be found. The Golisano Community Engagement Center is a beautiful mix of these three aspects of life and an exciting bridge between students, resources, and the City of Rochester.
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