THE CENTER OF ATTENTION
When Campus Architect Troy Luttman began planning for the Sarah Belk Gambrell Center for the Arts and Civic Engagement and Northwest Hall, it meant that the art and design faculty would soon be vacating the first floor of Watkins Hall. This opened up prime office space on the main quad in one of Queens’ five original buildings. Leaders decided that Watkins would be
the perfect location for two departments with high importance to students —IT Services and Campus Police—which were both displaced when their former location, Stultz, was demolished to make room for Northwest Hall. Housing them in this central location would allow them to maximize engagement with students and the Queens community. “As technology has become increasingly
central to the student experience at Queens, it’s great to have our office location reflect that as well so we can reach students and they can reach us,” explained Brian Baute, chief information officer and AVP of IT Services. The newly renovated Watkins Hall
provides students with exposure to diverse techniques and styles, as well as inspiration for what can be created.
6. While shopping at a local thrift store in Charlotte, Gerwin’s mother was drawn to a ceramic plate with a swirling red and black glaze. Gerwin offered affirmation on the quality of the piece, as he recognized the signature on the bottom as that of his predecessor, beloved Queens Professor Rick Crown. Enchanted, Gerwin’s mom immediately purchased the piece and gifted it to Denny and Melanie, where it not only serves food in their kitchen, but is also a lovely anecdote about the connectedness of the Queens community.
7. To celebrate students’ accomplishments, Gerwin throws a pizza party for his classes after final presentations. Students are encouraged to load up their dough with their favorite toppings and fire the savory creations in the pizza kiln: a freestanding, wood-fired bread oven that Gerwin built during his first semester. “We’re a work hard/play hard
community,” explained Gerwin. “My students and I put countless hours into our work, and most of that time is spent alongside one another. At the end of a challenging cycle, it’s important to me that we celebrate.”
— Danielle Phillips ’13, MS ’18
provides IT Services and Campus Police with a modern space that encompasses the unique needs of both departments. “We were influenced by a number of technology company headquarters to create a bright, open and collaborative space for team members to work together,” said Baute, adding that the space features open offices for collaboration and flexible meeting spaces. In addition, Chief of Police Lesia Finney is
excited to have a completely secure location with individualized spaces for officers and new interview rooms for privacy. “Being back in the center of campus allows us several advantages. A vitally important one is that we are able to respond much quicker to emergencies,” said Finney. “Being in Watkins Hall is going to provide our department and officers a direct line to the pulse of the university and its activities.”
—Brandy Redmond 5
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