Ross Hall was abuzz with laughter and chatter on Feb. 4 as community members came together to celebrate the completed renovations that transformed the former residence hall into a student-centered space serving the needs of campus clubs and organizations.
Student Government chose Ross Hall as a new location for dedicated meeting and collaboration space because of its proximity to the Henry Student Center, its designated offices and meeting rooms, plus a cozy communal first floor with a kitchen. It didn’t hurt that there was plenty of room for imagination.
“It was somewhat of a blank canvas when we started, which gave Student Government the chance to be creative and reflect their style,” said Catie Becker, director of civic engagement.
The walls are now adorned with canvas prints of students and vibrant Wilkes vinyl decals. In addition to the cosmetic changes, Student Government ensured that everything a student could need was there from consistent Wi-Fi access points to basic kitchen utensils.
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With more space, campus clubs would be able to reserve rooms to host meetings, small events or other activities. Now that the renovations are complete, the entire first floor of Ross Hall, as well as two additional small group meeting spaces on the first and second floors, are available for reservation.
Ross Hall also now houses the offices for Student Development and Adventure Education on the third floor, making the building a one-stop shop for student activities.
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this renovation project is how the community rallied together to see this through. “Students were able to advocate for this space through active collaboration with university administration, facilities and their advisors,” said Stacy Mullen, director of student development.
With Ross Hall now reimagined, student organizations and clubs have the opportunity to take advantage of its resources, helping to encourage a thriving club culture on campus.
Edweana “E” Alexis, senior class president, is one of the many students who benefit from their club involvement. “[Clubs] have turned me into the student that I am,” Alexis noted, adding that she was confident to “seek out new spaces and experiences” as a result.
Dixon Rexach Toro founded The Art of Living, a club focused on spirituality, meditation and yoga, this past academic year. As a transfer student, Rexach Toro said, “I love the people here and the culture we’ve been able to share through clubs.”
Even with 70+ clubs to choose from on the Wilkes campus, students won’t need to be a member of any particular group to access the resources offered in Ross Hall. This reimagined space is open to all Wilkes students, regardless of club affiliation.
For more information about student organizations, campus clubs or how to reserve meeting space in Ross Hall, contact Student Development.
Learn more about clubs and organizations on campus.
Reserve a room in Ross Hall for your next club meeting.
