Rutgers-Camden Opens "Writers House" In Restored Historic Building
CAMDEN, NJ (CBS) -- Rutgers-Camden cut the ribbon on its newest addition.
Actually, it's a renovation of a 19th century historic row house on Cooper Street which will now serve an educational purpose.
Call it the Writers House.
Noted for its architectural design, the 1885 structure now serves as home for the English Department as well as the Masters program in creative writing.
Kris Lindenmeyer, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, says this building will cultivate creativity.
"Good writing is about communication and connection," Lindenmeyer told some 100 attendees. "To me, today's opening of the Rutgers University Camden Writer's House is a celebration of what makes us human and the connections that are possible through thoughtful introspection and writing."
The building is just a couple blocks away from the building legendary poet Walt Whitman called home. University President Robert Barchi said this building will benefit students, faculty and the Camden Community.
"This is the beginning," Barchi said. "We're starting a 250th year celebration, but we're also starting a wave of renovation and expansion and construction here in Camden."
One need look no further than across Cooper Street, where work is underway on a restored building to be dedicated to science and nursing. Plans are also in the works to build a new structure for the business school.
