Gadsden State Community College’s Wallace Drive Campus Quad is getting a fresh look and added functionality thanks to a collaborative effort between Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and the Gadsden State Alumni Association. Together, the organizations are making significant improvements to the outdoor space in an effort to create an inviting environment for students to study, socialize and enjoy the campus.

“Our PTK president, Collins Davis, came up with the idea for the improvement project,” said Melissa Davis, PTK advisor. “His goal was to create a vibrant, welcoming space for students. Our PTK members and the Alumni Association want to make the Quad a place students are proud of. It’s been inspiring to see this vision come to life.”

The Alumni Association provided the initiative’s funding by purchasing new shrubs and successfully securing nearly $10,000 through a Margin of Excellence grant. This funding allowed for the addition of four new park benches and three tables with seating. PTK members contributed their time and effort by rearranging existing outdoor furniture, spreading fresh pine straw and planting new shrubs. The collaborative project culminated in a Clean-up Day on Oct. 25.

“The opportunity to partner with the Alumni Association on this project has been incredibly rewarding for our students,” Davis said. “It’s meaningful for them to engage in campus improvements that will benefit their fellow students. They’re proud to have had a direct hand in enhancing the Quad.”

Julie White, president of the Alumni Association, said she views this project as an important contribution to student life.

“Outdoor spaces like the Quad provide a wonderful environment for students to study, gather and build community,” she said. “Our goal is to make the Quad a comfortable, inviting space that enriches the campus experience. We are thrilled to see this vision come together through our partnership with PTK.”