SWU Formally Opens New Academic Engagement Center
CENTRAL, S.C. – Earlier this year, as part of the Homecoming festivities and a month of milestones at Southern Wesleyan University (SWU), the ribbon-cutting of the new Student Engagement and Success Center. This addition to the Claude R. Rickman Library provides spaces for members of the SWU community to study, explore, and create.
“The Center is a collaborative space where students, faculty, and staff can participate in research, collegial activities, and discussions,” says Dr. Sandra McLendon
Vice Provost of Academic Strategies and Chair of School of Education and Music Studies.
“The Student Engagement and Success Center is beneficial to all students because it is considered a one-stop shop where students can come and find everything that they need. We can be creative, and we also have the opportunity to succeed in our classes with the tutors they have provided for us,” says Student Government Association President Tyreesha Williams.
Many students, faculty, staff, and members of the community were present for the dedication and ribbon cutting. Dr. Barker, The Rickmans, Dr. McLendon, Tyreesha Williams and Joni Addis cut the ribbon, formally opening the Center.
Amenities include 3D printing, sewing, and customizable smart cutting within the Maker Space, and audio/visual production and virtual immersion within the Multimedia Lab. A 24-hour Study Lab provides computer and printer access to students to meet their needs at any time. A wide range of services that contribute to student achievement are also located within the Rickman Library. The arrangement centralizes student access to IT, financial aid, student accounts, student records, library, and student support services. Students, faculty, and staff are already intellectually engaging in innovative creativity for academic growth and learning.
The Student Engagement and Success Center is becoming a hub of student activity on campus, and the Makerspace and Multimedia Lab are playing a large role in that growth. Compared with last year, the library saw an increase of over 600 visitors in September alone. These spaces are drawing in students who normally would not spend much time in the library. The Makerspace and Multimedia Lab have also created opportunities for faculty and staff across the campus community to share their interests and expertise by offering workshops and make-and-take classes,” says Joni Addis, Director of Library Services.
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to swu.edu.
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