The underutilized second-floor lab in the Biology Building at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) has been transformed into a space for collaboration, named the Bio Collaboration Lounge, due to donor support. This initiative arose after IT data indicated that the lab’s computers were rarely used, prompting the biology department to seek student input on repurposing the area.
“Students want spaces to be together: more whiteboards, more places to collaborate,” said Wendy Clement, the department chair. She also noted the lack of space for weekly lab meetings, a significant component of the department’s activities.
The revamped lounge now features modular furniture, new whiteboards, and a large monitor equipped for Zoom, allowing flexible use for meetings and study sessions. The project was funded by contributions from alumni and supporters of TCNJ, gathered through various fundraising events including TCNJ’s Day of Giving.
Clement emphasized the impact of these donations, stating: “This is a great example of how many small gifts can add up. Someone may have given $20, someone else $500 — and together, those contributions made this possible.”
The lounge has been in use since the fall, hosting lab meetings, visiting speakers, and free student use when not reserved. It includes four public computers installed with biology-specific software.
Associate professor of biology KT Elliott remarked on the importance of collaborative environments, noting, “It’s important to me that we all sit around a table and are able to speak with each other as colleagues.” Similarly, biology professor Gary Dickinson stressed the benefits of the space, saying, “Having an open, collaborative space is ideal. It creates the kind of atmosphere where students feel valued, engaged, and excited to be part of meaningful research.”
Clement concluded by highlighting the project’s impact: “It wasn’t a huge or expensive project, but it’s made a big difference. It’s a small thing we were able to do quickly that’s already supporting community and collaboration in a really meaningful way.”
