Syracuse Sun

The Barnes Center at The Arch recently achieved a significant milestone by welcoming its 2 millionth visitor to the recreation and fitness area, marking a momentous occasion for the campus community. The center, which opened in Fall 2019, has become an essential hub for student wellness and community engagement.

Matthew Hackett, the director of recreation at the Barnes Center, expressed his enthusiasm for reaching this milestone, stating, "We’re very excited to have reached our 2 millionth visitor milestone." Hackett emphasized the center's dedication to providing a comprehensive student experience that prioritizes integrated care and fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.

The Barnes Center stands out as a beacon of student wellness, offering a wide range of programs and services aimed at promoting holistic health and well-being. From health care and counseling to recreation and health promotion, the center serves as a centralized space where students can focus on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

One of the key aspects of the Barnes Center is its emphasis on inclusivity and diversity in fitness and recreation opportunities. Gabbie McCafferty, a student at the center, highlighted the importance of the facility in staying fit during college, stating, "It lets me stay fit while I’m in college." Similarly, Abby Cohen praised the center for its inclusivity and diverse workout options, mentioning, "I feel like I can really do whatever I want, whatever workout I’m into and there’s so many options for what I can do here."

In addition to fitness and recreation offerings, the Barnes Center provides spaces for studying, socializing, and enjoying healthy refreshments at Otto’s Juice Box. Ariel Lewis, another student, shared her experience, saying, "I like coming because I like to play basketball. When I want some mini-nutrition, I come to Otto’s Juice Box."

The campus community is encouraged to explore the various recreation opportunities available at the Barnes Center at The Arch through the center's website, Wellness Portal, or by visiting in person. The achievement of welcoming the 2 millionth visitor underscores the center's significance in supporting student health and wellness, and it is poised to continue attracting visitors for years to come.