The circular sitting space is situated around a tree on the Quad, near Searles Science Center. The College’s Committee on Governance and Faculty Affairs (GFA) felt it was fitting to have the bench outside, given how much time was spent outdoors by students and faculty during the pandemic, teaching and learning under the trees.
Last year, the GFA enlisted the help of A. LeRoy Greason Professor of Art Emeritus Mark Wethli to find a suitable style of bench and make a photoshop rendering to present to Rose. “I found one online that I felt had the right look for the occasion, was suitable for the Quad, and was consistent with campus landscape design in general in terms of style and materials,” said Wethli. He soon paired up with David Shanks in the Office Facilities Management, who oversaw the production and installation of the bench, which was completed late last week.
“I’m very proud to have played a part in this effort to honor Clayton and to celebrate his legacy in such a public and accessible way,” added Wethli. “Making the bench a part of one of Bowdoin’s most revered and public spaces—the Quad—speaks to his valued leadership in guiding the college so successfully through one of its most challenging decades.”
Later this year a plaque will mounted next to the bench. As well as a dedication to Rose, the plaque will also include a quote from the former college president:
“We are a community built on care for one another, resilience, and determination. None of this will be changed by the current crisis.”
Clayton Rose.
