Since it opened in Fall 2000, the SAU Writing Center staff has helped hundreds of SAU students improve their writing skills and successfully complete writing assignments, course papers, theses, and articles for publication—in all sorts of academic disciplines—as well as such non-SAU-specific writing projects as résumés, personal statements, graduate school applications, and cover letters.
Almost since the beginning, the Center has housed a dedicated computer lab, permitting students a quiet space to do their own writing or revision–or to conference with consultants. In the fall of 2003, the Center purchased five café-style tables and sixteen rolling chairs to better facilitate conferencing. Our back room plays many roles: overflow space, classroom, conference room, and break room. The facility displays the art of Paul Maxwell and of former art professor Doug Waterfield.
When the Center opened its doors for the Fall 2008 semester, students found that the space had an entirely new look. Blue walls, a comfortable student lounge area, and a separate area for computers were the culmination of the “Flip This Center” Consultant Retreat in 2007. Most recently, the SAU Writing Center has upgraded its technology to include virtual computers, a laptop, and tablets for use during conferences. Technology grants have allowed us to add a wireless projector, motorized screen, and (most recently) the tablets, making the Writing Center an even more flexible resource for the students, director, consultants, and other members of the SAU community.
