Completed Scholars Walk attracts students

The new walkway between Owens Hall and the DiGiorgio Center encourages students to gather.

Meghan Whitney and Lauren Grogan sat on a swing on Scholars Walk on the second day of classes, chatting.

The two juniors have been at Winthrop for the opening of the West Center, Owens Hall and now the completion of Scholars Walk, which was finished during the summer before students returned for fall classes.

Whitney and Grogan said they love the addition of the walkway, especially the five white swings that stand beside Kinard.

"When we came back from the summer we were really surprised to see it here," Grogan said. "It's a good place just to hang out."

Freshman Jolie Odom said she enjoys the new swings, too.

"I think it's a really nice place," Odom said. "I wish there were more swings."

Scholars Walk was completed on time and will be followed by the DiGiorgio Center and gardens behind Roddey Apartments. When finished, the path will connect the oldest building on campus, the Little Chapel, with the new part of campus, the gardens.

The walkway is part of President DiGiorgio's plan to create a "heart of campus." The recent addition of Owens Hall and the West Center were the start of the campus shift. When the state provides money, a new library will be the last addition.