December 11, 2025
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, ӽ officially celebrated the opening of its first Hammock Village, a new outdoor oasis designed for students to rest, reset, and connect.
The ribbon-cutting event took place on the green between the Breed Leadership Center and Spears Center for the Arts, where the first of two designated hammock spaces now invites students to sway, study, and socialize beneath the open sky.
The project was made possible through a multi-year partnership with Mast General Store, whose generous sponsorship supports the installation, ongoing maintenance, and student-centered programming tied to the space. The partnership emphasizes well-being, campus life, and increased opportunities for students to explore the outdoors.
“The Hammock Village is more than a spot to hang out. It reflects our commitment to creating environments that support whole-student wellness,” said President John H. Dozier during the ceremony. “We are grateful to Mast General Store for helping us strengthen a campus culture that encourages balance, belonging, and community care.”
The Hammock Village adds a new option for students looking to spend more time outdoors, whether for quiet relaxation or quality time with friends.
ӽ and Mast General Store are exploring opportunities for ongoing engagement, including outdoor programs, giveaways, and co-hosted student events. The partnership establishes a dynamic model for how local organizations can support student wellness and extend learning beyond the classroom.
“The ӽ Hammock Village represents our shared belief that the college experience should create space for joy,” said Laura Pell, Marketing and Communications Coordinator at Mast General Store.
With the Hammock Village now open, the College is excited to continue growing outdoor gathering spaces that inspire a strong sense of place and pride for the ӽ community. The next phase of the partnership allows for additional installations, further enhancing the campus landscape and the spirit of connection it fosters.
Students are invited to stop by, climb in, breathe deep, and take in the view. The Hammock Village is officially open... Adventure, relaxation, and community await!