Recent Strides in Deepening the Residential Learning Experience
The second strategic goal of The Plan for Bucknell requires the University to provide an integrated, residential learning and living experience that "supports and complements the academic program" and that provides "personal growth and development, a sense of justice and ethical responsibility and a commitment to civic engagement" in a close-knit community. In its work to accomplish this goal, the University has:
Merged Academic Affairs and Student Affairs
Bucknell is a residential university, where students' experiences outside of the classroom are crucial elements of a holistic learning experience. To bring the many learning opportunities on campus under one umbrella, the University merged Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, providing centralized leadership by the provost, who ensures that educational and student affairs align with and complement each other. || Related links: Office of the Provost and Division of Academic Affairs , Educational goals, Student Affairs goals, Living-Learning Communities
Examined the campus climate
Problems such as binge drinking, sexual assault, violence and prejudice can occur on any college campus, and Bucknell is unfortunately no exception. In 2010-11, a task force of faculty and staff thoroughly and candidly examined the campus climate. The task force's report identified several challenges related to alcohol consumption, student norms, intellectual engagement and diversity, and it offered suggestions for addressing these problems. Under the leadership of the provost and the dean of students, Bucknell is holding a broad campus dialogue about how to strengthen the campus community, with a list of promising initiatives due to President Bravman in April 2012. || Related link: Collaborative to address high-risk drinking
Renovated the Campus Theatre and opened Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University
Two downtown buildings now serve as an extension of campus, providing spaces for students and faculty to learn, connect with one another, relax and be entertained.
The Campus Theatre is a 1940s art-deco-style theatre that reopened after six months of renovation. It now serves as a classroom, an events space and a movie house open to the general community. || Related link: Film Journal feature
Barnes & Noble at Bucknell University opened in 2010 after a yearlong restoration of a historic Lewisburg building. The bookstore features 29,500 square feet of assorted books and other merchandise displayed among artifacts from the building's past, along with a café and an event space open to campus and local communities. || Related links: News story, photo gallery
Hosted visiting speakers and scholars
To engage students, faculty and staff intellectually outside of class, Bucknell hosts visiting speakers and scholars with diverse viewpoints and expertise who can enrich the academic environment by stimulating discourse and inspiring new ideas. The Bucknell Forum was implemented under The Plan for Bucknell. Other University speaker series flourish.
