Bridgewater, Va.- It may only be week three of the school year, but there are already noticeable dents in Bridgewater College’s budget.
Bowman Hall renovations have officially been completed, and new adaptations and accommodations to sidewalks were constructed in multiple locations during the move-in week. Additionally, two new official majors have been introduced: Criminology and Game Design, expanding the academic options to students.
These upgrades have already proven beneficial to students this school year.
The recent modernization of Bowman Hall has introduced multiple television screens, whiteboard tables and a variety of new seating options, enhancing both the learning environment and the overall student experience of the building.
As a student, it is also encouraging to see BC prioritizing inclusivity through something as simple as sidewalk accommodations. While this may seem like a minor improvement in the grand scheme of campus upgrades, it underscores BC’s continued commitment to upholding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
BC’s new Criminology major provides new opportunities for students, particularly those who have participated in the school’s existing Crime and Justice minor. The Department of Sociology’s introduction of this major will provide development for students who are passionate about pursuing careers in the American criminal justice system.
Meanwhile, the new Game Design major will be housed within BC’s English department. Students will focus on building and examining video and board games, allowing them to graduate equipped with the skills that will position them for success in a fast-growing and diverse industry.
However, not all planned upgrades have been completed. According to an anonymous BC faculty source, the Kline Campus Center dining hall was supposed to be renovated over the summer but remains untouched. Although it has not yet been initiated, it is something to look forward to in the future.
A previous BC Voice article, The KCC: Is it Allergy Friendly?, highlighted a concern shared by many students: “The KCC does not offer a wide variety of allergy-friendly foods.” One of the most common complaints about the KCC dining hall is the lack of variety. Currently, there are only two stations that offer new daily dishes, while three other locations serve the same items every day, such as pizza, basic grilled foods and made-to-order wraps and sandwiches. Adding just one more station with a rotating daily menu could create a greater sense of variety and make mealtime more appealing for students.
Bridgewater College invests a lot of money each year to support its campus and community. Substantial funds go to faculty salaries, academic departments, programs, athletics and ongoing maintenance and renovations. These expenditures reflect the college’s commitment to their Strategic Plan 2025 providing an enriching environment for both students and staff.
Despite some pending projects, Bridgewater College’s recent upgrades and new academic offerings demonstrate a strong commitment to enhancing student life and advancing its strategic goals for the future.
