A major topic this year is the truth of the 20/20 plan that the university has drawn up for the future.
This plan involves taking down the over 100 year old Cunningham Residence Halls and building a new student center to replace it.
After talking to many past and present students about the Cunninghams, it is not even a question that the historical residence hall on campus will truly be missed by students, faculty and staff.
On the other hand, we must look at the benefits of tearing down this old, worn out building, and the improvements that will be made after the new student center is built.
With many troubles such as no air conditioning, older dorm style and the newest development, bed bugs, the Cunninghams seem like they have run their course over time.
As more and more people continue to wait in anticipation for the new student center, the desire for the removal of the Cunningham Residence Halls, which includes, North, South and Main, is in high demand.
Even the Cunninghams own residences are saying that the residence hall is just worn out.
The Cunninghams were supposed to be torn down this year. However, due to lack of housing with the closing of Stubbs Hall for renovations, as well as the admittance of the largest freshman class thus far, the university had no other choice but to open the residence hall back up and house over 400 students there.
With that said, we must wait to hear more about the forthcoming of the Cunninghams and whether or not next year, 2014, will be the year the building finally will come down for good.
I know many people are hesitant to see more construction on campus, especially in the center of campus where the Cunninghams currently reside.
Personally, like others, I love the Cunninghams and believe they bring a traditional scene to Longwood University.
But also, by taking them down and building the new student center, a more modern feel will be brought to the campus that can expand our appeal to, not only current students, but perspective students and alumni.
addition to the rally for taking down the Cunninghams, on move in day, the resident assistants of North, South and Main Cunningham took it upon themselves to sell a “Goodbye to the Cunninghams” T-shirt to students. So is it finally time to say goodbye?
The student center seems to clearly be the favorite in this case, and we must take that into account for the future of, not only the residence hall, but Longwood as a whole.
So, as sad as I am to say it, “Longwood University, tear down the Cunninghams!”
Thoughts about the future demolition of the Cunningham Residence Halls? No matter your opinion, feel free to share your beliefs with The Rotunda at rotundastories@gmail.com. We value your opinions!
