For decades NASH students have walked past the Athletic Hall of Fame on their way into the building. But times are changing, as the Student Council decided to switch things up and turn the glass-enclosed room into a student lounge.
“Mr. Buchak was looking to create a space that better allows students to enjoy lunch if they want to do something other than just sit and talk,” NASH Student Council sponsor Mr. Karloski said. “Student Council wants to support that by getting some comfortable furniture to create a coffee shop type of vibe.”
Karolski added,“I hope that students have a space to meet new friends, collaborate, play games, and just relax and unwind.”
The room now features a chess board and Connect 4, and although the new space has yet to be named, Karolski said that his group has an idea.
“We are currently looking at the name Student Collaboration Center,” he said.
With the trophies formerly on display in the room having been moved to the Baierl Center, NASH students are taking full advantage of the re-purposed room.
“I like how it’s a fun place to rest after eating lunch, and it’s nice to talk to other students that are not at your table,” junior Chris Cappelloni said.
Karolski explained that the idea for the student lounge continues to evolve.
“We are continually looking for ways to improve all student areas,” he said. “Some ideas come from previewing other spaces, and others come from student requests.”
The south end of the cafeteria, where the student lounge is located, has been the focus of renovation since last year.
“Initially, the efforts included the ping pong table to allow students the opportunity to do different things during lunches,” Karolski said. “We have received many requests to have a space that is near the cafeteria that could serve as a separate space.”
Cappeloni’s hope is that improvements continue to be made to the new space or that additional spaces are made available to students.
“It’s a small place which gets too crowded and there are not enough seats for everyone,” he said. “I would also like it if they add some video games in the lounge.”
While the renovated room has been available to students for only a short time, Karolski believes the space will continue long into NASH’s future.
“We hope that students take pride in the school and appreciate the space so they can take care of it,” he said.
