WC Wisconsin News

College life at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UWL) is expanding beyond academics with a new housing option aimed at fostering community among students passionate about the arts. The university's latest Living Learning Community (LLC), housed in the newly remodeled Wentz Hall next to the Lowe Center for the Arts, focuses on visual and performing arts.

This initiative, known as the Visual & Performing Arts (VPA) LLC, provides an immersive environment for students interested in creative fields. It joins several other themed housing options at UWL that cater to various academic programs and personal interests.

“LLCs give students access to faculty and staff who are directly connected to each LLC, and there are events that are targeted to the specific community,” says Andie Coxey, coordinator for Engagement & High Impact Practices in Residence Life. “It gives them a connection right from the first day and really helps to naturally build community.”

The VPA LLC was developed through collaboration between Residence Life and Pete Rydberg, director of the School of Visual & Performing Arts. Rydberg explains his motivation: “When I learned about the other LLCs on campus, I thought that it might be excellent to set one up for students involved in the arts for a couple of reasons. First, my hope is that it will be one more way to build community on campus, not just amongst VPA majors and minors but also students from all disciplines who participate in the arts.”

Rydberg views this new living arrangement as both socially and academically beneficial. With classrooms and rehearsal spaces nearby, it aims to enhance academic experiences while making participation in artistic activities more accessible.

“The arts thrive with collaboration and cross-pollination of ideas and styles,” Rydberg says. “With the LLC, residents can memorize lines, practice music and create works of art with creative collaborators right in their corridor.”

More than 20 students have already enrolled in this fall’s VPA LLC program which promises artistic enrichment alongside social activities such as trips to Milwaukee's "Violins of Hope" exhibition or outings like ax-throwing sessions.

“Taking some time just to have fun while bonding with your floormates is important too,” adds Rydberg.

Whether majoring specifically within art disciplines or simply enjoying creative expression recreationally—the VPA LLC offers unique opportunities for building connections artistically growing within supportive environments provided by UWL’s innovative approach towards collegiate communities through its diverse range Living Learning Communities available across campus today!