The New Roberts Pavilion: Where the Physical and the Intellectual Intersect
By Lotte de Silva P'18
As you approach Roberts Pavilion, you are struck by its imposing arrangement of glass and tile and at the same time by its ability to blend naturally into the environment, giving it an open, approachable feel. To call the new Roberts Pavilion a “sports center” would be to vastly underrate it, and upon entering the Pavilion, you instantly become aware of its potential.
At its heart sits a naturally-lit arena that seats approximately 2,200 spectators. Surrounding it are three floors incorporating a recreation gym, fitness center, weight room, fitness studios, locker rooms, sports medicine facility, and headquarters for the Athletic Department. In addition to serving the health and wellness needs of CMC, the Pavilion will provide a new center for social life on campus.
The Pavilion’s multi-purpose functionality has already been put to the test these last several weeks, hosting more than 800 people at Parents Orientation, Academic Convocation, Day of Dialogue, and a volleyball tournament, while at the same time other sports teams held practice and students utilized the weight room and fitness center.
“The intent was to build a place that was an asset to the entire CMC community; a place on campus that represents the very best of what we’re trying to do at CMC, which is to promote excellence,” says Michael Sutton, director of advancement for athletics. He adds, “The openness and natural light enhance the effect of being able to see everything from everywhere. That’s what makes this place so special.”
To celebrate the opening of the new Roberts Pavilion, there will be a Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony held on Friday, September 30, during ImpactCMC. All CMC students, family, friends, alumni, faculty and staff are invited to attend not only the dedication events but also the celebratory reception and dinner on Parent’s Field. “The dedication will showcase not only the fitness and recreational activities but also the health and wellness sessions. We will be highlighting students of art and music among other things,” explains Dorothy Buchanan, director of special events at CMC and the organizer of this event.
For further information and to register for this event, please visit our website at http://roberts-pavilion.cmc.edu/dedication-and-ribbon-cutting-ceremony.
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