After months of anticipation by the commuter student community, Drew University has officially reopened the Commuters Lounge in the Ehinger Center.
During the recent summer break, a storm caused unexpected damage to the Ehinger Center and surrounding areas. When the damage was assessed, it was learned that the Commuter Lounge sustained some heavy damage. Facilities has been working tirelessly throughout the semester to restore the lounge to full functionality.
“We are thrilled to welcome commuter students back into the Commuter Lounge! In student life, we understand how essential this space is to commuter life, and we truly appreciate how kind and understanding all commuter students have been regarding the renovation timeline for the lounge. We are excited for commuters to enjoy this space again!” said Michelle Brisson, Dean of Student Life.
The lounge was designed for commuter students to store items in the fridge and lockers, study, do homework and relax between classes. For many, it is more than a room; it is a supportive environment the university offers which caters to their unique needs and experiences.
“Having a space such as this is super important because it provides a sense of escape,” said Alexa Santillán (‘26). “It’s like a VIP-only space and I think sometimes it’s necessary to just get away from the noise because, let’s be honest, locking yourself in a private room in the library or just being somewhere else does not provide the same sense of comfort that one can feel just hanging out in the lounge.”
Many commuters have formed lasting friendships in the lounge, finding common ground in their shared experiences. With the lounge reopening, the new crop of commuters will now have the opportunity to experience what previous students have enjoyed.
The College of Liberal Arts Student Government played a key role in enhancing the lounge by securing a new, larger refrigerator. This addition, which replaces the previous mini-fridge, gives commuters more storage space for food and refreshments during the day.
“I am grateful that the administration was able to fulfill this request for me at the direction of the commuter student body,” said Maks Coven (‘27), Commuter Senator of the CLA Student Government. “I hope the fridge finds good use!”
Other new additions include a foosball table and new carpeting, which gives the space a fresh and inviting look. The microwave, coffee machine and other essentials remain.
During the repair period, the university encouraged commuters to use the lounge space located in Brothers College, but it could not replicate the atmosphere and familiarity of the Commuter Lounge. While commuters on campus made use of the alternative spaces on campus, several expressed how much they missed the lounge.
“These spots were public spaces and they just didn’t feel the same. There was no sense of privacy like the lounge offered, and it just wasn’t comfortable at the end of the day,” said Zakai Brown (‘27).
Senate members in Student Government and the executive board of Commuters Association were excited to see the lounge return to full functionality. Throughout the semester, the two organizations received numerous inquiries from commuters about when the lounge would return to full functionality.
With the new updates, the lounge stands ready to continue serving as a supportive hub for commuter students, providing a sense of community and connection as they navigate campus life.
Benjamin Castro is a senior majoring in marketing & business, minoring in history.
Featured image courtesy of Dee Cohen.