By Jennifer Turner, Editor & Director of Content
When the Lane Student Life Center opened in October, it achieved a long-planned goal of creating a central location for Ashley Hall’s already robust signature programming in wellness, college counseling, and student life. Although limited by the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, the Center quickly exhibited how well the School’s Department of Student Life has continued to fulfill its crucial role of serving students’ needs. Offering 6,000 square feet of repurposed space for students in ninth through twelfth grades, the Lane Student Life Center (SLC) seeks to meet students’ needs by gathering under one roof critical services and guidance opportunities. “We know that in order for true learning to occur and to have a healthy campus life overall, it is vital to address the mental health and the social-emotional needs of our students,” said Upper School Counselor Katie Neighbours. “Having a space dedicated to these needs prioritizes these important aspects of student life.” The SLC features a wellness classroom, a café, administrative and counseling offices, additional classroom space, and areas designated for collaboration, study, socializing, and movement. Although pandemic health and safety policies have required some of these offerings to be gradually phased in, Upper School students have already come to appreciate the building’s unique purpose. “This year’s seniors are very intent on spending as much time on campus as possible and have really taken to all areas of the SLC,” said Dean of Students Kelly Sumner. “I think they feel safe and supported as well as valued and heard in this building.
They know it is a place where they can have so many needs met as well as a place to just seek solace in the café or with a trusted adult.” In addition to prioritizing opportunities for mentoring and relationship building, the center is also the place where students make plans for their future. “We are better able to help our girls understand that the development of all aspects of their lives will best direct them in their college choices,” said Director of College Counseling Amanda Murrell. “The SLC will encourage conversations that explore how all aspects of our lives are intertwined.”
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I love the study rooms and the ambiance of the first f loor. I think it is a mentally happy space for being productive and also spending time with friends. —RUBY SLOAN ’21
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| L-R: Sarah Marshall, Kitty Goldman, Ruby Sloan, and Grayson Brewer, Class of 2021, chat over coffee in the SLC. Photo by Meredith Frazier
