English Department Gets New Look, Hosts Open House

English Department faculty and students are enjoying a spiffed up space this semester. Four rooms on the third floor of Ketchum Hall, including the department’s main office and faculty lounge, have received a refreshing makeover.

The department will host an open house on Tuesday, February 4, between 8:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. in Ketchum Hall 326.

Campus Facilities crews removed a wall divider in the main office, installed new carpet, and painted the walls. Faculty mailboxes and supplies were relocated to the faculty lounge, now painted a soft pink. In addition, some faculty members will be getting replacement furniture from the campus surplus supply

“People can’t remember the last time these offices were updated,” said English Department secretary Maureen Lougen.

English professor Lisa Berglund, who became department chair in June, requested the renovations, which are covered by the department fund. "I think the renovations are going to make a big difference, especially with the wall coming out in the main office," Berglund said. "It should provide a more attractive and welcoming space."

Down the road, she said, they would like to enclose the kitchenette in the main office and add artwork and better signage to the walls.