by Bridget Ruffing, ’22
Thomas More students and faculty alike were able to retreat from the brisk, cold air typical of February in New England to enjoy refreshments and each other’s company during the opening reception for the newly-renovated student lounge. Everyone entered the room to find a space that had been elevated and renewed.
This project was brought to completion thanks to the dedicated work of our Buildings and Grounds team, especially Tom Ford and Clark Ingram; Drs. Denis and Sara Kitzinger, who took charge of the decorations and furnishings; and chief carpenter Bill Desrosiers and his team. These individuals, among others, worked together to create a space that would best meet the needs of the College and serve students and faculty alike.
“I love the new lounge! …You’ll find students from every class gathered around the pool table, reading quietly on the couches, or studying and conversing around every table. It’s a busy but comforting vibe, allowing friendships to grow amongst students that wouldn’t otherwise be formed.”
–Ashley Bryant ’22
Thomas More College students can now be found writing papers and playing chess on tables that were handmade by a local woodworker. Others gather on the couches and armchairs surrounding the fireplace for quiet reflection and friendly conversation. Best of all is the new pool table, where students (and the occasional faculty or staff member) come to enjoy a sense of camaraderie tested and strengthened by healthy competition.
“The pool table is certainly the most popular aspect of the new lounge. I noticed, however, the other day, while some students were huddled around the table debating from which angle to strike the cue in order to most efficiently hit the most billiard balls, that there seemed to be quite a bit of unintentional Euclidean geometry playing a heavy part in every turn.”
–Torrey Culbertson ’22
The lounge was designed to serve as the perfect place for homework, discussion, and relaxation and refreshment in the midst of hard work. The space helps further the College’s intent to provide a congenial home for all kinds of intellectual and leisurely pursuits. Faculty and students can enjoy the lounge together as conversation extends outside the walls of the classroom. One thing is certain: this space promises to be a staple of campus life.
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