Created for a relaxed way to study and to converse with peers, Main Street Marywood will be placed outside in the art field and other surrounding areas. The unveiling of the Bronze Pacer statue will take place in honor of Marywood’s athletic teams. The event also includes the unveiling of the new WVMW-VMFM 91.7 radio station, which will support students’ love for music and social activity.

The idea came into effect when President Lisa Lori recognized the potential in the Art Field. In an interview with The Wood Word, President Lisa Lori stated , “I would look at the art field between the Learning Commons and Insalaco, and I thought the space could really be enjoyed by the students if it had some shade and community engagement areas.’’

She also credits the students for the idea. Marywood enlisted its very own architecture students as a collaboration with creating the new space.

Some key considerations for the project were funding and sustainability. Marywood received most of its funding as a gift from Gourmet Dining. Lori explained that the water issue in the lawn near the patio was also fixed during the project and that they have submitted a grant to create sidewalks across the field. Lori stated, “the main consideration for me was to create a space for our students that they would enjoy and have this project be funded through donors.”

Main Street Marywood is expected to benefit the students of Marywood by creating a vibrant community space. Lori emphasized that “the campus is alive and well and we have provided a place where everyone is invited and this community can be enjoyed.”

Lori also highlights the broader impact, stating, “From our Main Street to yours, Marywood students connect all across this country and into different continents,” with the hope that students will carry memories and the values of Marywood to communities worldwide.

Marywood Main Street has many things in store for its students, including the patio with seating and firepits and outdoor games such as cornhole, putting greens and table games. Christmas trees will line the street in December, and the space will host events such as alumni weekend, concerts and classes.

Marywood’s Main Street developers took students with diverse needs and abilities in mind when creating this space. Lori states, “ the area is ADA accessible, and benches dot the street for any other type of enjoyment.”

Marywood is set to celebrate the completion of Marywood Main Street with a ribbon- cutting event scheduled for Sept. 13 at 4 p.m.. The event will highlight the contributions of alumni and the vision behind the new additions.

Lori expressed her enthusiasm for ongoing student involvement stating, “it is truly my hope that students will continue to come forward with ideas for how we can utilize our spaces for their enjoyment. I invite these ideas, and no idea is a bad idea!”

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