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The College is working with , an award-winning, women-owned architecture and design firm based in New York City, on a student spaces project, which is expected to include work on three to five spaces across campus. The work will be completed quickly, providing students with refreshed spaces for Fall 2025.

The project came about through conversations President Wendy Cadge had with students over the first six months of her presidency.

“We’re embarking on a comprehensive campus plan, but that doesn’t mean we can’t address some things more immediately,” says Cadge. “This was a need I heard from students that we can act on now, and I’m really excited to see how it goes.”

In their proposal for the project, MBB described their approach to creating a variety of spaces to suit diverse student preferences, from “light-filled, open lounges” to “quiet, dimly lit cocoons.” The firm has been tasked with identifying a handful of existing student spaces that are most ripe for transformation, then designing a quick “refresh” or light renovations to be completed over the summer. The design team is starting with a community engagement process.

“We are thrilled that �鶹��Ƶ has asked us not only to help update student spaces on campus, but also to be a part of this dialogue initiated by President Cadge,” says Taylor Aikin, a partner at MBB. “The President is prioritizing student life. So our focus is to listen to students to understand their needs and preferences. The input we are already receiving represents a wonderful diversity of views on well-being, belonging, and spaces that make students feel at home.”

Sara Grant, also a partner at MBB, says the firm is gathering information using techniques that are meant to maximize inclusion and mitigate against bias. “Our toolkit includes semi-structured interviews, activity mapping, an online questionnaire, and focus groups,” she said. Students can access the online survey using .

This initiative will build upon the inherent strengths and character of each space, enhancing existing assets while strategically improving the student experience.

The advisory committee is made up of:

Katie Krimmel, Acting Co-Dean of the Undergraduate College

Mia Harvey, Student Engagement Coordinator

A.T. Ortiz, Dean for Equity, Inclusion, and Student Life

Nomah Elliot '27

Shannon Kearns, Chief of Staff

Jessica Vitali, Assistant Director of Facilites Planning and Projects

By prioritizing inclusivity, flexibility, and student input, this initiative aims to create meaningful spaces that enhance student life, foster community engagement, and provide supportive environments for both academic and personal growth. Through thoughtful design and strategic improvements, the campus will soon offer a wider range of spaces where students can connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Questions about the project can be sent to jvitali@brynmawr.edu.