Roy R. Charles Center and Writing Resources Center move

New home Sharon Zuber, WRC director prepares to post sign in center's new Swem home. Photo by Stephen Salpukas

Charles Center new home Students enter the new home of the Roy R. Charles center on the second floor of Blow Memorial Hall. Photo by Stephen Salpukas

Consultations WRC consultants work with students on writing assignments and presentations. Photo by Sharon Zuber

by Christina Bullock ('10) | September 15, 2009

The Roy R. Charles Center and Writing Resources Center, two well-known resources for William & Mary students, have new homes this fall. Both spaces, which used to be housed in Tucker Hall, will continue to inspire discovery and research.

The Charles Center, which provides support for interdisciplinary programs and facilitates departmental honors programs, moved to the second floor of Blow Memorial Hall. Established in 1987, the Writing Resources Center and Oral Communications Studio continues its legacy this year on the first floor of Swem Library. The new locations provide more accessibility.

"The Writing Resources Center has always been an interdisciplinary space, an all College space," said Sharon Zuber, director of the center.

The Writing Resources Center is staffed by approximately 20 student consultants who have a niche for communication and writing.

“We can assist with writing and presentations, from the initial planning stages, to improving the finished product,” said consultant Katherine Perkins (’11).

One of the best parts of the move is the accessibility of the center, said Zuber.

“Not only did we move from Tucker, but we are in a more central, comfortable and open space for all students. We are more visible than ever before,” Zuber said.

Upon entering the new space, students will immediately notice a difference, including more tables and computers for work.

"It’s nice to finally have windows. We have so much more personal space for consulting,” said consultant Kristen Verge (’11).

According to its Web site, each year about 10 percent of graduating seniors pursue an honors research project, with guidance from their home departments and support from the Charles Center. Several student scholars programs within Arts & Sciences – including James Monroe Scholars, Murray Scholars and Sharpe Community Scholars programs -- are administered through the center, which "functions as a hub of information and assistance for students seeking scholarships and grants, internships, and undergraduate research opportunities."

The center is also responsible for providing support to students through the interdisciplinary programs and departments. When asked about the center’s move into the non-subterranean space of Blow Memorial Hall, Lisa Grimes, associate director noted, "With the recent renovation to the Web site and this summer's move, it's much easier for students to find out what opportunities are available through the Charles Center online or with a personal visit."

Much like the Writing Resources Center, the new accessibility of the Charles Center will help promote its mission.

"We want students to stop by to see the new space, and while they're here they can chat with a peer scholarship advisor, get details on the upcoming showcase of undergraduate research, or learn about interdisciplinary programs," Grimes continued. "We've always been a great resource for the College community but before the move students (as well as faculty and staff) may not have known how to reach us. Now there's no excuse."