The plaza is intended to the plaza fosters a greater sense of belonging and social connections for students, thus positively impacting student persistence and retention. Courtesy photo
Nina Wiley and her husband Steven have donated the funding for the gathering space outside of Rhodes Hall. Courtesy photo
The Clark State campus in Springfield is upping its welcoming game.
What’s happening: The Nina and Steven Wiley Student Plaza will soon provide a place to meet for everyone in the Clark State community – students, faculty, staff, and community members. Wiley Plaza, a gathering space outside Rhodes Hall on the main Clark State campus in Springfield will be dedicated on April 18 at 3 p.m.
The timeline: The work on the plaza is in the last phase and it’s nearly complete. The renovation inside of Rhodes Hall on Clark State’s campus began in 2014 with the creation of the Student Academic Support Center on the first floor. The next phase of renovation, in 2017, was primarily focused on updating the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing infrastructure of the building. In 2019, another phase of renovations enhanced the student and faculty learning environment by modernizing the classrooms, restrooms, hallways, flooring, and faculty offices on the third floor. In 2021, additional renovations occurred to address similar needs on the second floor.
How it came about: Nina Wiley, assistant vice president of student affairs at Clark State College, and her husband Steven have donated the funding for the gathering space outside of Rhodes Hall.
Why it’s important: Nina Wiley says the plaza fosters a greater sense of belonging and social connections for students, thus positively impacting student persistence and retention. “We are proud to have an outside space on campus where students can gather, learn, and connect with one another,” says Wiley. “The design of the plaza lends itself to a welcoming environment, perfect for student life events and programming.”
The backstory: Wiley began as an admissions specialist in 2006 and worked through Student Affairs to her current position. She has remained committed to providing meaningful engagement opportunities for students that promote growth, leadership, and academic success. In 2023, the Wiley family also established a scholarship through the Clark State Foundation in honor of Nina’s late father, Bobby Fisher.
What they’re saying: Dr. Jo Alice Blondin, president of Clark State says there are no bigger supporters of Clark State students than Nina and Steve Wiley. “Their incredibly generous gift will provide students with a place to gather, fellowship, and interact in a way that brings life and joy to our college,” she says. “Nina and Steve’s commitment to the well-being of our students is evident in this space that we are dedicating to them and will become a visible reminder of their dedication and generosity.” Blondin went on to say: "Nina has witnessed the transformation of Rhodes Hall, and I am sure has kept a keen focus on where students will gather and what they will utilize within this newly renovated space. After all, Nina is a champion of student life and belonging."
Source: Clark State College
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