This past Martin Luther King Day marked the opening of Stonehill’s latest campus addition, an ice skating rink in the center of the May Pavilion. The rink, which is the first attraction of its kind at the college, was donated by alumni Thomas and Donna May.
Built between O’Hara Hall and the Martin Institute, the rink is a way for students to have fun without having to dive into their wallets. The 60 by 120 foot rink is completely free of charge to students, and many are taking advantage already.
Sophomore Teresa Kenney, a first time skater, was out on the ice opening day, getting skating lessons from her boyfriend. She is thrilled that alumni like Thomas and Donna May have decided to give such a unique gift to the college. “I think it is a fun way for donors to give back.” Kenny said. “It keeps people on campus, and it is a great form of exercise.”
Although not all students were as ambitious as Kenny and had their skates laced up immediately, many are excited to give it a try. Sophomore Emily Rocha is eager to get out on the ice and take a whirl around the rink. “I was surprised by how professional it looks,” Rocha explained about her first impression of the rink.
The rink offers plenty of opportunity for students to try out their skates, for as many as 225 skaters are allowed on the ice at a time. Students should take advantage as the weather gets colder to take a few laps around the ice. If this winter sport is not for them, then they can always head to Dunkin Donuts for a hot chocolate, as it is conveniently located next to the rink. Depending on the weather, the rink will be open until March 12th.
Sources:
http://www.stonehill.edu/x24707.xml
http://www.stonehill.edu/x12839.xml
Photo source:
http://www.stonehill.edu/x25243.xml?currentpage=4