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From left to right: CF President James Henningsen and Dean of E-Learning and Learning Resources Tammi Viviano-Broderick standing in front of the rope that was cut during the ceremony. Both staff members along with their teams have worked for two years to make this project happen.

On Wednesday, March 27, students and staff members of CF came together to enjoy and observe the new renovations that occurred in the Clifford B. Stearns Learning Resource Center also known as the LRC.

After the anticipation for the biggest renovation in 20 years, all the guests were ecstatic to finally see the LRC come together. The grand re-opening took place from 12 pm to 2:30 pm on the first floor of the LRC.

“It is so amazing and exciting that the renovations are finally done,” Tammi Viviano-Broderick said.

So many people have been behind this project from the very beginning; Tammi Viviano-Broderick, Tom Morelock, Joe Mazur, Barbara Lopez, Lois Kohlweiss, James Henningsen, and many more in the Plant Operations department.

“This has been going on for two and a half years and we are all so thankful for how everything turned out, so pleased with the outcome,” said Lois Kohlweiss, staff assistant for StartSmart Title III Grant.

While the grand re-opening highlighted the hard work that went into getting the space together but also stressing the importance of how multi-functional the space is. Introducing new spaces such as Cliff’s Café and the Mindfulness room.

During the event, there was a scavenger hunt game where guests could participate in order to win a scholarship or gift card. There were also free samples being served such as; Cesar salad, chocolate cake, cheesecake, and other dishes.

“After tasting some of the samplers I definitely see myself coming down here a lot more often. The café hours are so accommodating, especially for those who have late classes,” said Amanda Raiker, a 3rd-year student.

At CF there are few places where a student can hang out with their friends and have a bite to eat. The LRC serves every students desire; students can eat, participate in yoga, study, access computers, receive tutoring, and many other tasks.

Many students and staff members alike see this building as a place where they don’t have to leave and a place that will impact their campus for the better, impacting everyone on even the smallest of levels.

“I’m usually always here in the library in the upstairs portion, what made me come down here today was to see the renovations and to try some food from the café. I definitely see myself being down here a lot more often,” said Whitney Gomez, first-year student.

“I came here because I had to do homework, but I was so excited to find out that there is now a café here. It is not only super convenient but also affordable,” said Rebecca Flagg, a 2nd-year student.

The café accepts credit card and cash payments on all menu items.

College can be a breaking point for a lot of individuals and the stress can easily build up. According to Viviano-Broderick, the mindful center will a place where students can become at peace. Implementing this on campus could help those who suffer from anxiety or feel a little worrisome before an exam.

“The ambiance of the space is so peaceful, you have the café, comfortable seats, and then the relaxation center. It’s going to positively impact so many people and benefit the campus in so many ways,” said Norma Walcott, an educational advisor.

Now that the LRC is complete, anyone is free to enter and enjoy the space on Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Friday’s hours are 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. and Saturday’s are the last day of the week that they are opened, hours being 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Story and photos by: Janette Parker