The Oscar J. and Judith D. Mifsud Collaborative Learning Center on the first floor of the Heterick Memorial Library at Ohio Northern University was formally dedicated during a ceremony held Oct. 14.
Recent renovations to the first floor of Heterick library have created an open, comfortable, well-lit, media-rich, collaborative-learning space. Huddle rooms, an upgraded computer lab, an innovation center with white boards on the walls, plenty of group-study space, and a food and beverage area highlight the group-friendly learning center.
“This renovation is propelling the University forward to more fully embrace 21st-century learning by creating space specifically designed to foster teamwork, innovation and collaboration.” said Daniel A. DiBiasio, ONU president.
The furnishings reflect a more student-focused approach with flexible furniture of every kind, such as booths, tall tables, lounge chairs, whiteboards and modern study carrels that are large enough for both a computer laptop and textbook.
“In many ways, we are breaking the rules of traditional college libraries,” said Kathleen Baril, ONU’s library director. “Library research on a university campus is not what it used to be, and our new library space reflects that. The focus is on best utilizing the library space to meet the needs of today’s college students.”
Several students were members of the library’s official first-floor revitalization committee. The center includes space and technology to allow students of various academic pursuits to work together.
“I think the space is inviting to students to actually meet as a group and study. The furniture provides students more space to comfortably study. The colors and lighting of the first floor make studying less daunting or perhaps more relaxing,” said Alexandra Seda, a senior electrical engineering major from Columbiana, Ala., who was part of the student advisory board for the renovation project.
Faculty members appreciate how the reconfigured space supports an active learning environment.
Melissa Eddings-Mancuso, professor of art, said, “It was important to create a relaxed and casual atmosphere that translates into conversation and dialogue, and not the hushed, quiet atmosphere that previously existed. The flexible furnishings translate into flexible thinking.”
The benefactors of this collaborative learning environment are long-time supporters of the University and its students.
Oscar and Judith Mifsud both graduated from ONU in 1970 with degrees in business administration and elementary education, respectively.
Oscar Mifsud is the first president and CEO of The Mifsud Group LLC and the former president, CEO and owner of SMR Aerospace. He is chairman of the ONU Board of Trustees and has earned the University’s Distinguished Alumni Award and an honorary doctorate from ONU.
Judith Mifsud established a nonprofit organization, PJs from Grandma, which provides new pajamas to charitable organizations that serve children and families in need. Additionally, she volunteers with InterFaith Care Givers. Judith Mifsud also received a Distinguished Alumni Award and honorary doctorate from ONU.
