Social Work lounge a sign of respect

By Laurie Drukier

As the 23rd Take Your Place space to open on campus, the Faculty of Social Work’s student lounge boasts many of the features that have made this 40th anniversary project so successful.

Student designers from EVDS have created a bright, open space in warm, earthy colours, with a variety of seating to allow for many sizes of gatherings. The area will be a focal point for engaging the faculty’s educational and professional community on campus.

But this space means more, says Dr. Gayla Rogers, dean of the Faculty of Social Work. Its creation makes a statement about the deep commitment to the faculty and its work from the U of C and the space’s donors—Margaret and Ted Newall.

“We’re thrilled to be included in Take Your Place,” Rogers says. “It’s a great indication for us that our faculty and our professional work is supported and valued by the university, and by the community.”

Located on the fourth floor of the Professional Faculties Building, the student lounge is part of Take Your Place, the university’s 40th anniversary project to renovate, refurbish and refresh 40 spaces on campus for meeting, studying or just hanging out. It opened Nov. 20.

EVDS designers met with students in the faculty to hear more about their needs for the space. “It was great to be included in the process,” says Rebecca Ataya, a second-year master’s student and co-chair of the student society. “The designers came up with something amazing that really addressed the way we work, our events and uses; it’s beautiful and works for all of our needs.”

The renovation was supported by a generous donation from the Newalls, long-time friends of the university. The couple has worked tirelessly throughout their personal and professional lives to help increase access to education for students. Ted Newall is a former chair of the U of C Board of Governors.