Dear Colleagues:
I hope you have taken note of the many exciting developments across Winthrop’s physical landscape as we begin the fall semester. This bevy of activity, impacting grounds, interiors, roofs and windows, makes me energized when I am out and about on campus. I am writing today with an update on the Campus Beautification Initiative: REVITALIZING WINTHROP. But first, I would like to thank the committee, under the direction of Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts Jeff Bellantoni, for its excellent work and commitment to this initiative.
You may recall last April’s Placemaking Project No. 1 (the historic Artesian Well with surrounding courtyard/front of our main administration building) that involved pressure washing, landscaping and more. More recently the Admissions team worked to enliven the landscaping and porch area at Joynes Hall. Both of these projects illustrate the CBI’s aims and complement the important work of Facilities Management that is ongoing and was accelerated this summer under the direction of our new AVP, James Grigg.
With the start of the 2021-22 academic year, REVITALING WINTHROP has launched a new website and is announcing the Winthrop Year of Service, the community engagement and participation commitment component of REVITALIZING WINTHROP. Year of Service goals are elevating school spirit, enhancing community, and encouraging investment in campus care. Benefits to participants include meeting community service requirements, fulfilling stewardship commitments, strengthening camaraderie among colleagues, and increasing our collective sense of positive well-being.
Making a pledge to the Year of Service signifies commitment to any number of Placemaking Projects based on hours that suit your availability. Generally, projects will be scheduled between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Projects will typically be 2 to 3 hours, and they involve landscaping (spreading mulch, planting and watering plants, etc.), general cleanup, and supporting Facilities Management. Human Resources has important guidelines regarding this work. If you are interested, review the guidelines and talk to your supervisor about your desire to participate. Calls will be placed for volunteers on a project-by-project basis.
To pledge a Year of Service to the Campus Beautification Initiative: REVITALIZING WINTHROP, please complete this short form. Contributions of time and energy are welcome and greatly appreciated! You will hear more about future projects from the committee. Alison and I look forward to working with you to make the most of our beautiful campus.
Sincerely,
George
George W. Hynd
Interim President
