New quiet room emphasizes commitment to diversity, inclusion
In an effort to support wellness and diversity, The Ohio State University College of Engineering has created a dedicated quiet space for its students, faculty and staff.
Nestled inside Knowlton Hall, the college’s new “Quiet Room” provides a space away from open study and work environments for individuals to engage in quiet reflection, de-stress and participate in prayer or other wellness activities.
The Quiet Room is located in KN178 and is equipped with benches and mats, but has intentionally been left as a blank slate. Other amenities will be added to improve the space over time as user feedback is gathered.
“We are pleased to open the new Quiet Room to the College of Engineering community and would like to offer our sincere appreciation and thanks to the Knowlton School of Architecture’s Diversity, Outreach and Inclusion Committee and building coordinator for meeting the call to action,” said Chief Diversity Officer Donnie Perkins.
“The Quiet Room will be a daily example of the college’s commitment to our students, faculty, staff and guests as we advance our understanding and daily practices of wellness, diversity, inclusion, equity and unity.”
The space is located on the first floor of Knowlton Hall adjacent to the carpeted review space. Open hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Permitted activities include the following:
- Meditation
- Prayer
- Relaxation breaks
- Breathing and stretching exercises
- Mindfulness activities
The room is not intended for studying, meetings, lounging or sleeping. Food and beverages are prohibited.
To provide feedback on the Quiet Room, take the anonymous survey at go.osu.edu/KnowltonHallQuietRoom.
by Meggie Biss, College of Engineering Communications | biss.11@osu.edu
