The student government and City College administrators have begun institutionalizing the prayer and meditation space, ensuring that City College students will have a space to practice their religion and meditate.
Since its establishment, the Associated Student Government has been tasked with maintaining the space. Institutionalizing it would relieve the student government of this responsibility.
Currently, Commissioner of International Student Affairs, Lauren Merz has taken on the responsibility of ensuring the space is available for all students. Merz emphasized the importance of the space and how institutionalizing the space would be beneficial for students.
“It would signify a shift from student management to school oversight,” Merz said. “The transition could provide greater stability and resources, allowing the room to prosper and grow.”
The idea of institutionalizing the space was brought up by the Cartwright Learning Resource Center laboratory teaching assistant Regina Reese (CLRC) at the ASG meeting, as suggested by the Dean of the Cartwright Learning Resource Center Beth Taylor Schott.
“I feel like this is an important space on campus,” Reese said. “So many students are really stressed, facing all these different things, loneliness, and when you look at things like prayer and meditation and relaxation, it can really help support students in positive ways.”
She highlighted the health benefits that meditation and prayer offer and how it can support student learning. Reese also emphasized the fact that not only do students benefit from this space but the faculty and staff on campus as well.
The space itself was created when former commissioner of international affairs Emilie Beckman was originally inspired to create the space after learning that her roommate had to leave campus frequently to pray.
It was opened in February of 2023 and was located in the Administrative Building room A125, however after concerns over the location and student safety were brought up, the space was moved from the administrative building to the CLRC in March of this year.
Since the room’s creation, there has been concern over its use and frequency. While the space isn’t drawing large crowds, Reese continued to highlight its need.
“Even if the usage is low, it doesn’t mean that it’s not going to pick up,” Reese said. “But you have to get the word out.”
While the process of institutionalization is moving slowly, both Merz and Reese are working with ASG President Raquel Smith and Superintendent and President of City College, Erika Endrijonas, on the details of the room with meetings currently being planned.
In the meantime, they plan on dedicating resources to enhance the space.
“We plan to introduce new furniture that fosters a more inviting atmosphere for everyone,” Merz said. “We also aim to increase awareness of the room within the community to encourage more people to utilize this space.”
Emphasizing a need for student awareness and engagement, Merz brought up the value of student input and how they can shape the space to meet their needs.
“[Students can] share their feedback about the room and suggest potential improvements,” Merz said. “Any insights will be invaluable in creating a space that truly meets the needs of our community.”
