‘The Heart of Campus Life’
The College Center at Crozier-Williams is ready to host a new generation of Camels.
The College Center at Crozier-Williams, the primary social hub on campus since 1957, has emerged from a major renovation with a striking new look and renewed purpose.
No longer a dated crossroads of college life, Cro—as it is better known to Camel Nation—is now a bright, modern and highly functional space designed to match how today’s students meet, study and connect.
“This building has always held a special place in the heart of campus life. It’s a place where ideas and friendships are formed and the spirit of Conn comes alive. And now, thanks to the vision and generosity of so many, this beloved center has been reimagined for a new generation of students—and for generations to come,” Board of Trustees Chair Seth W. Alvord ’93 said at the ribbon cutting and dedication on Oct. 24.
“This is more than a renovation. It’s a recommitment—to community, to collaboration, to the values that define Connecticut College. As we cut the ribbon today, we’re not just opening doors—we’re opening new possibilities.”
Previously cavernous and cool, Cro’s interior is now warm and cozy, with natural color schemes, varied seating options and comfortable alcoves. The ground floor features an entirely new Oasis eatery—complete with an outdoor patio—and a renovated Susan E. Lynch 1962 Room with enhanced technology and a flexible seating design to accommodate events of all sizes. Upstairs, the former Cro’s Nest has been replaced with a bright and airy Humphrey’s pub featuring both indoor and outdoor space for gatherings and performances.
Claire Carroll ’28, a computer science major and vice chair of the Student Activities Council, told the students, faculty and staff gathered for the official opening event that the transformed space has already made a significant impact on campus life.
“Cro is where students go to build their community and interact with peers who bring new experiences to our world,” she said. “Cro is our place to learn, to connect and to make our Connecticut College experience our own.”
The renovation was made possible with generous support from Susan Eckert Lynch ’62, Devon Danz Preston ’93 P’28, Hans and Marian Baldauf P’24, an anonymous donor, and the Class of 1969 Memorial Campus Beautification and Improvement Fund. Several of the donors were present at the ribbon cutting and were presented with a citation commemorating the dedication by President Andrea E. Chapdelaine.
“This building has always been a social anchor for our students, and this renovation reflects what they asked for: a campus center that brings people together across class years and programs. We are deeply grateful to the alumni and donors who helped make this possible,” Chapdelaine said.
Consigli Construction Co., Inc., the College’s construction partner on the project, supported the reconfiguration and delivery of student-facing spaces.
“This new, revitalized College Center at Crozier-Williams—now a vibrant hub for connection and collaboration featuring enhanced amenities—marks a significant milestone in Connecticut College’s commitment to enriching student life,” said Josh Sylvester, Consigli’s regional director for Connecticut. “Consigli is grateful to partner with the College on not just this new chapter for Cro, but also on its long-term vision for campus transformation.”