Moving day
As the academic year reaches an end in May, the Alpert Medical School Community is getting ready for the move to 222 Richmond, the Medical School’s first real home. As the move goes from concept to reality, our med school community – faculty, staff and students – is excited about the possibilities that will come with being under one roof and having full access to such outstanding educational facilities.
“Having a centralized location for all four class years will be invaluable to students. It will allow us to build a better sense of community and foster mentoring and collaboration,” said Linda Gillette, Director, Financial Aid at Alpert Medical School. “This move will also benefit the city of Providence, and it is exciting for the Medical School to play a part in the revitalization of this part of the city.”
The Alpert Medical School has always been known for its strong sense of community, and the feeling among many is that the move will enhance and strengthen these ties.
“One element that is very exciting is the Academy System of student communities, which will enhance our advising program and involve all four classes and many faculty members,” said Emily Green,
Assistant Director of Medical School Affairs. “This system would not be possible without the new building, and it is an example of an immediate, positive change that will be felt as a result of the move.”
The departments will start the move in mid-July, and the students will join them in mid-August for orientation and the start of classes.
View at the top (fourth floor)
One feature of the new Medical School building that is getting “buzz” is the fourth floor, which will house a roof deck and green space. When completed, the roof deck will offer an amazing view of College Hill and the city. Specifics include a wood deck with seating for up to 125 people as well as built-in benches and planters. The space will allow students, faculty and staff a green space to relax, study, meet or have lunch, without the need to leave the building. It will also provide a good venue for special events at the Medical School as well as community engagement activities. Having a built-in roof top “park,” is one of the perks of the new location and will allow the community an oasis in the middle of the Jewelry District.
Café society
When the building opens, it will contain a café, accessible to all members of the med school community and the public. The café will be run by Richard Weis, owner of Bagel Gourmet and Bagel Gourmet Ole, two popular restaurants in the College Hill area. Plans are for the café to be open seven days a week with hours from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Richard has a long and positive history with the University and a reputation for outstanding food and healthy menu options. The café will allow students, faculty and staff an on-site eating option while also providing a fine eatery for our school’s new neighbors.