UA students now have a cozy, home-like spot in UA’s busy Jean Hower Taber Student Union with the fall 2023 opening of the re:center, a former student lounge space that was renovated and transformed into an oasis where students can rest and recharge. ZipAssist played a major role in the development of the space.
The center was funded by a gift from the Women in Philanthropy program of the University of Akron Foundation’s Stewardship & Women in Philanthropy Committee. Alison Doehring, senior director of ZipAssist, and Anna Ball, senior associate director of ZipAssist, who co-taught the Zips Recharge Together [Un]class, a spring 2023 course offered by the EX[L] Center for Community.
Engaged Learning, encouraged their students to gather ideas for their vision of the space. With the help of an interior designer, the room was thoughtfully crafted as a soothing environment to support mental health and wellness. These features include a nap pod, comfortable furnishings, plants and expansive windows for natural light. Students from UA’s Myers School of Art crafted a mural for the space.
ZipAssist added stress-relief items such as stress balls, stickers and coloring books, and keeps the space stocked with information on health and wellness resources available to students. ZipAssist recently ordered additional furniture and seating, which is an indication that the re:center is being used regularly by students who want a quiet retreat during their busy days.
By Jessica Whitehill