Beacon Hall: An Educational Change

By John Slater
Staff Writer

Whether this is your first semester at Housatonic Community College or not, this is Beacon Hall’s debut semester.

Since 1997, Lafayette Hall has seen many students come and go through the hallways at HCC. The building which has served as the educational center for so many, will now share that tradition with Beacon Hall. Although both buildings will serve as the stage to educate many, Beacon Hall now offers new amenities to students which they previously did not have.

When asked about her favorite addition to Housatonic, Kyleigh Hacker said she loves the study area on the third floor of Beacon Hall. “It’s great” Hacker said. Also adding that it not only provides a great study area but the furniture is much more comfortable and inviting than the space in Lafayette Hall.

Speaking of the third floor, students who have class there may no longer be intimidated to park on the fifth floor of the parking garage. In fact, they may feel invited; there is an outdoor walkway which adjoins the 2 structures.

The perimeter of the walkway, which is lit with 6 over head lights and 5 small pillar lights, serves as “an easy access point for all students including those who may suffer from a handicap” said HCC student Dominic Gattling.

The first floor of Beacon Hall will also offer a wellness and fitness center.. Anjela Hayes works at the Beacon Hall information desk. Hayes said that although there is not a definite date, to her knowledge the fitness center will open by the end of October.

“Hopefully the fitness center will serve all the purposes of a gym” said Donald Campbell. Who is also impressed with all the power outlets around the building which allow him to use his laptop while at HCC.

Although Beacon Hall is as inviting as it is, there is much more for students to look forward. A larger bookstore, a cafeteria and a computer lab are just some of the other amenities which students will find useful when Beacon Hall is fully complete.