Onyx Fall-Winter 2019

ENHANCING LIFE AT THE WOODS Aspire Higher Campaign Fall 2019 Update By Dianne Frances D. Powell Since the leadership phase of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College’s Aspire Higher campaign began in July 2016, this comprehensive campaign has been driving major improvements to campus infrastructure to meet the needs of today’s students. These improvements, made possible by donor support, are making an impact on the student experience. For example, students have started reaping the benefits of renovations to the large student lounge on the first floor of Le Fer Hall, known to most alums as the Green or Sullivan Parlor. The lounge now features its original hardwood floors. It also received improved LED lighting, electrical outlets and all new furniture. “Being able to have a designated, comfortable space to study and work with friends really helps build community,” said Emma Taylor, a junior elementary education major from Greencastle, Indiana. “Being a student here during this time is very eye-opening because I get to see history unfold.” The Sacred Heart Chapel has also been relocated to the main floor thanks to a generous campaign donation from the Class of 1964. The former chapel space on the ground level is now Studio 64, a student flex space providing a practice venue for the new dance team and other activities such as yoga, exercise classes and a meeting space for students. “I go to the chapel a lot. It’s a very peaceful area on campus. It’s a great place to unwind and connect with God,” Taylor, a member of the I Love Le Fer Student Advisory Committee, said. The committee provided the student perspective for the planning of the I Love Le Fer initiative, which is a focus of the Aspire Higher Campaign. Taylor also welcomed the addition of a computer bar on the main academic hallway of Le Fer. Installed this past spring, the computers are adjacent to a nearby printer providing added convenience to the students completing academic work. The computer lab, located on the first floor, has been repurposed into a faculty office. The $22 million Aspire Higher Campaign has three primary focuses: the Woods Fund, endowment growth and a capital project to renovate Le Fer Hall, SMWC’s residence hall that opened in 1923. The campaign publicly launched in February 2018 with strong support from those who love The Woods.

New furniture and lighting in student lounge

New study area in student lounge

Resident assistants participate in CPR training in new Studio 64

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Right: Emma Taylor sits at the computer bar in Le Fer Hall studying.

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