By Sarah Kinney
Staff Writer

On Sept. 10, Bartol Hall’s summer renovations were officially recognized with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Representatives from Structure Tones (the contracting company), Buildings and Grounds, Aramark, and other Simmons administrators and students celebrated with a few words and a short video of “before and after” snapshots.

President Helen Drinan opened the evening and thanked the many people involved with the project from the Project Manager to those responsible for the new photographs on the wall.

“Bartol, once a place not so popular or great; now a destination,” said Dean of Student Life Sarah Neill in a haiku she wrote.

Renovations began in Bartol on July 1 and finished right before school started in the fall, said Director of Buildings and Grounds Steve Gusmini.

Much of the changes were cosmetic finishes and technology.

Assistant Vice President Janet Fishstein said they wanted to focus on upgrading where it would have the most impact.

There is new paint on the walls, new tables and chairs of several sorts, two projection screens, and a digital signboard now in the main dining room. Bartol Small also was renovated to be more like a meeting room (comparable to the Mesick Hall smartroom).

Administrators would not comment on the cost of the project.

The design incorporates multiple different seating areas, said Gusmini. Students’ opinions were also considered in the process.

Fishstein said they hoped students would use the space more frequently now that the renovation is complete.

Bartol Hall is now open until 9 p.m. for dining and until 11 p.m. as a place for students to use, explained Nikki Vanderpool.