Dr. James C. Malley
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Counseling & Family Therapy

The University of Hartford has the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. The University of Connecticut has the Jorgeson Center for the Performing Arts. Central Connecticut should have the Welte Center for the Performing Arts. This would help CCSU to improve its image of being a center for cultural, aesthetic, and intellectual enrichment. This is possible now because of the availability of convenient parking next to the Welte Auditorium especially on Fridays and Saturdays. This recommendation envisions the development of a classical concert series that brings in well known performing artists including the Hartford Symphony as well as showcasing some of our outstanding on-campus talent. Conceivably, this could be a money-making venture. It could also be augmented by smaller performances, e.g., chamber concerts in the Torp Theatre or Founders Hall. These events could be advertised in the papers and on radio, including National Public Radio providing additional marketing exposure.

As an add-on to this recommendation, it is suggested that all incoming undergraduate students have an opportunity to take a "Culture and Fine Arts" course-without-walls. Over the course of their four years they would accumulate 150 hours of approved cultural and fine arts events, lectures, etc. This would increase participation in on-campus events, but could also include off campus venues, i.e., Bushnell, Wadsworth Athenaeum, New Britain Museum, etc.

As another add-on to this recommendation, and consistent with the Sohn Reorganization Committee recommendations, it is suggested that we create a "common-time" on campus during which no classes would be held, allowing an opportunity for students to participate in campus sponsored events or to just use the time for community building.

James C. Malley, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Chair
Department of Counseling & Family Therapy

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