Wilkes Creates New and Improved Spaces for Students

This summer, the campus was abuzz with construction, maintenance and moving. Facilities managed several projects that made both major and minor changes to existing locations on campus.

Student government was seeking a new home on campus and facilities helped it come to life. Ross Hall was transformed into a dedicated space for student development, clubs and organizations. The building houses Wilkes Adventure Education (WAE) as well as a multitude of gathering spaces for meetings and events. An open first floor creates a sense of unity for the new occupants.

“Ross Hall will provide a new space for our students to gather and hold club meetings and events,” said Nolee Ana Grabowski, president of student government. “As the new home of the Mega Council clubs, it will allow us to all share the same space.”

Additionally, Hollenback Hall serves as the new home for Air Force ROTC Detachment 752, continuing a tradition of support and growth for AFROTC students that spans over five decades. Hollenback Hall has seen many inhabitants over the years. From a women’s dormitory to the founding site of The Beacon, the list of previous tenants is extensive and proves the long-standing quality of the building.

Hollenback Hall’s updated facilities include study rooms, computers, a conference room, planning spaces for leadership, offices and a lounge area with a pool table dedicated in memory of Major Candice Adams Ismirle ’03.

Zachary Curry, a commuter student from the Pocono region, feels that the designated gathering spot is especially important for the detachment. The new space is “a major resource for most of us as we travel for training at Wilkes,” Curry said. “Our new house has provided us with a place to feel closer as a community.”

The University also made several internal and external improvements to residence halls:

• Evans Hall received a new roof and exterior enhancements, plus significant painting and flooring inside.
• University Towers had its roof replaced and the brick exterior was cleaned and sealed.
• Michelini Hall saw some roof replacements.
• Roth Hall had showers replaced and refinished.
• Conygham Hall received new windows.

At its core, Wilkes is a historic campus that maintains the original features of its unique buildings while consistently striving to improve safety and quality of life, from residence hall updates to repurposed landmarks of the community.