New ‘Den’ part of Smith Hall reorganization

There was a lot going on in Smith Hall during the holiday break when Student Engagement relocated to the building’s main floor from its previous home on the first floor.

“When students enter the front door of Smith, they now find everything related to Student Engagement in one place,” said Brian Carlisle, Dean of Students. “That includes my office, Housing, the Chaplain, Global Engagement, counseling, career center and Securitas. All of this is part of President Baxter’s commitment to a student-centered learning experience at LaGrange College.”

One of the biggest changes is to Edmondson Parlor just inside the front entrance.

Students told Dr. Baxter they’d love to have a gathering place with areas for study, games, hanging out and TV or movie watching,” said Carlisle. “Rethinking the parlor seemed to be the perfect solution, locating it across the hall from Campus Life.

Existing antiques and furnishings found homes across campus while the space was outfitted with new furniture and accessories.

“Thanks to an anonymous donor, we were able to buy comfy furniture, oversized chairs, game tables and art,” Carlisle said.

Now dubbed The Den, the space is open daily from 8 a.m. until midnight, and it’s become popular with students, Carlisle said. "There seems to be someone there almost all of the time,” he said. “Of course, we’ve been following COVID protocol with masks and social distancing, but it’s been fun to see the students discovering and enjoying their new space.”

Offices previously housed on the second floor of Smith have been relocated. Communications and Marketing is now on the first floor, while Alumni and Community Relations and Special Events and Conferences have joined the Development Office in Candler Cottage.