A ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house were hosted at the renovated Recreation, Fitness and Wellness Center Tuesday. 

“I’d also like to express my deepest gratitude to the state of Indiana for their ongoing support and the capital funds that made this project possible,” said Steve Bridges, interim president. 

Bridges said students will have better access to wellness, religious organizations, and fitness. 

Resources and organizations in the RFWC include Public Safety, Counseling and Psychological Services, the USI Deaconess Clinic, Religious Life, the Student Wellness Office and University Strategic Communication. 

Robin Sanabria, director of CAPS, spoke about the new office location and said it was a point of validation for how important taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is. In addition, she said this is a way they can carry out their mission as a provider to students. 

Sam Preston, director of Public Safety, said how much they looked forward to moving to a new facility.

“First and foremost, we’re going to be weatherproof, and that’s something that we are looking forward to,” Preston said. “There’s a lot of times that our dispatcher has to grab a radio and run over to seek shelter in a storm.”

He also discussed being able to better monitor campus with new equipment and having a space to meet with students and staff.

“As I often say, after 4:30 in the afternoon, Public Safety becomes the face of the university,” Preston said. “And I think this is just a great space for us to showcase what we do and what we do well, and to be that first point in contact for many people.”

Attendees were invited to explore the renovated RFWC after the ribbon cutting. The RFWC is fully open to students and staff, with hours varying throughout the week.