The Cavalier Daily article is by Grace Little,
Photo by Ken Fabia, The Cavalier Daily
The Cavalier Daily toured the Contemplative Commons in January and published an article on February 6. Excerpts from the full story, written by Grace Little, follow. Read the full story here.
The Contemplative Commons, a space dedicated to integrating themes of nature, art and technology, piloted its diverse programming this past semester following its soft opening Aug. 26, 2024. The grand opening of the Commons, set for April 4-6, will celebrate and promote the growth of the space in the University and local community.
After roughly three years of construction beginning in November 2021, the Commons welcomed students and community members into its doors this past fall for academic courses, research initiatives and drop-in programs, such as writing workshops and yoga classes, among other events. The building is also available as a study space for students from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m."
The 57,000 square-foot building overseeing the Dell Pond cost $67.1 million and was a gift from alumni and donors, according to Contemplative Commons Director Nicole Thomas.
“The [donors] wanted to give the University a space to all come together … as [students] are discovering different parts of their identity and figuring out what they might want to add to their life toolkit,” Thomas said.
As a building intended for student-use, the Commons also employs students, with 12 Contemplative Commons Student Advisors. These advisors help strategize and implement programs encouraging contemplation for their peers and assessing the programs’ effectiveness by measuring turnout and student satisfaction. Third-year College student Asia Leslie began working in this role in January 2024.
“It’s been really fun — I really enjoy learning more about this building and helping other students learn more about it, and therefore kind of integrate wellness and mindfulness into their lives,” Leslie said. “Contemplation is a skill that you can build … [to] flourish beyond the classroom.”
The full article is here.