Gather ’round — at a safe social distance

As the evenings lengthen and the temperatures turn decidedly cool, students typically move inside to study and socialize with friends. But with social distancing guidelines in effect, the occupancy rate for any one lounge or study area is considerably reduced, thanks (or rather, NO thanks) to COVID-19.

But the Mendoza College of Business found a way to extend the use of its open courtyard as a hangout spot for students. The College recently added two fire pits and new Adirondack chairs to create a warm, campfire-like setting in a similar fashion as the University’s Library Lawn.

“The main goal is to provide more opportunities for our students to socialize with each other before and after class in a safe way – i.e., outside – now that it’s colder,” said Martijn Cremers, Martin J. Gillen Dean of Mendoza.

The fire pits are lit from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Students and visitors are expected to wear masks and observe social distancing rules.

Photos by Matt Cashore (ND ’94)/University of Notre Dame