Nor Osborne, Special to The Denisonian—
The renovation of the Huffman basement space has recently been unveiled, opening up a new space on campus tailored specifically for student organizations.
Dr. Nicole Aussmer, the advisor of DCGA, is excited about all of the possibilities the space will make possible.
“I want students to know that Huffman is a space for creation and innovation,” Aussmer said. It’s a space where ideas can come and grow into whatever they put their minds to.”
The tools for innovation in the new space include three reservable conference rooms, a maker’s space filled with crafting supplies, an enhanced phone booth, and lounge spaces designed for independent work. Every room includes a TV with wireless systems and bluetooth sound bars, large charging stations, sound dampening and moveable furniture. Other than functionality, parts of the space were created sustainably, such fabric and furniture in the space being made from recyclable materials.
Alex Pan ‘24, the current co-governor of DCGA and former student body president, helped spearhead this project.
“With only so much real estate to go around, this new space is especially meaningful, showing how much we prioritize student organizations on this campus,” Pan said.
DCGA seized the opportunity to build the space when the Student Conduct Office relocated to Slayter, leaving the area under Huffman open. The project was proposed and enacted quickly, despite the typical slow process of passing projects such as these through DCGA. With the help of DCGA senators and the facilities team, the Huffman basement is now open for business.
Patrick Finna, advisor of the rules committee, helped with the renovation, bringing his experience with space planning to bring the project to life. Finna is thrilled to see all of the new ways students embrace the space, especially all the collaboration waiting to happen.
“What’s so great about the design of this place is it fosters organic collaboration, while also allowing people to have a space to work independently in a together environment,” Finna said.
The innovation is still planned to continue into the future.
“This is only the beginning. I hope to start looking into other places on campus and continue to refresh and renovate, with students’ voices at the center,” Aussmer said.
Pan also said that DCGA is hoping to continue to fund spaces such as these.
“I really think this place is going to be the crown jewel of East Quad,” Pan said.
Have a suggestion? This team wants to hear your feedback. QR codes are posted all around the Huffman basement for your suggestions on how to make the environment even better.