by Hamed Goharipour
The College of Wooster stands as a beacon of academic excellence and community spirit. However, our institution still thrives on the synergy between the vibrant campus and the picturesque town of Wooster. Yet, as we navigate the challenges posed by physical constraints, communication issues, spatial organization of activities and zones in town and evolving sociocultural dynamics, the bond between our college and the town requires nurturing. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this relationship has become more crucial than ever.
As we confront these challenges head-on, supported by Vice President Cheryl Nuñez and Assistant Dean of Students Joe Kirk, a dedicated AMRE team embarked on a transformative journey during the summer. Thomas Pitney ’24, Trinity Harmon ’24, Thaint Zar Chi Ou ’24 and Maame Yaa Sakyiwaa Genfi, a guest student from Ashesi University, co-advised by Dr. Ryan Ozar and I had one mission: To reimagine and revitalize the connections that bind our college and town together.
Through interviews with 24 stakeholders and a comprehensive community survey involving 79 participants, this team endeavored to decipher Wooster’s challenges. From the rich tapestry of responses, seven central themes emerged: hubs, communication, recreation, collaboration, community-facing events, safety, transportation and accessibility. These themes encapsulated the aspirations and concerns of both the college and town residents, forming the foundation for their recommendations.
Drawing upon placemaking theory and these seven themes, the team devised four strategic approaches: eventalization, physical modification, place rebranding and spatial extension. These approaches serve as the bedrock for 33 innovative placemaking projects proposed for our college. These projects range from tactical, short-term endeavors to mid-term and long-term initiatives designed to bring our college and town closer together.
Optimism fuels our vision for a more connected future. The demographics of our college, including the faculty, staff and students, have evolved significantly in recent years, reflecting a diverse community that craves more opportunities for social interaction. Simultaneously, the College’s ongoing projects, such as the relocation of tennis courts, pave the way for informed spatial decisions. The winds of change at the administrative level further invigorate our aspirations, infusing fresh perspectives into the College’s ethos.
We believe that the timely implementation of these recommendations will empower our students to feel a profound sense of ownership in Wooster. This sense of belonging is integral to shaping the student experience and will define how they reminisce about their time spent in our town in the coming years. But what lies at the heart of our ambition to strengthen the college-town relationship? It’s the recognition that the town of Wooster is not just a geographical location where our college resides. It is an integral part of our educational experience, offering unique personal and intellectual growth opportunities. The town and the College of Wooster are not just spaces and buildings; they make a canvas upon which memories are painted, friendships are forged and futures are shaped. It’s where students interact with the wider world where they learn the art of empathy, along with community engagement and civic responsibility.
In the tapestry of life at the College of Wooster, the college-town relationship is not a mere thread; it’s a vibrant color that enriches the whole picture. It’s a testament to our commitment to inclusivity, diversity and the pursuit of knowledge beyond the classroom. So, let us embark on this journey of transformation, where our college and town are not just neighbors but partners in growth. Let us cultivate a culture of communication and camaraderie that extends beyond the campus gates. Together, we can ensure that every student carries with them not only a degree but a profound sense of belonging to the town of Wooster, a place they can proudly call home.
