Whether you are a returning student or it’s your first year at Episcopal, the new Haskell Center for Science and Student Life is unfamiliar to all of us. The Haskell building houses new science and technology classrooms on its second floor and a new dining hall, Harden Hall, on the first floor. The building was constructed as part of Episcopal’s “Boldly ESJ” campaign to renovate campus facilities and promote the study of science. The campaign raised 19 million dollars, which will be used for several more renovation projects around campus. 

While everyone is excited about the brand-new building, there have been some concerns surrounding crowding during lunch periods and overall space inside. Harden Hall houses approximately 220 seats, according to a diagram published on Episcopal’s website.

Most students can fit comfortably, but those who come later can have trouble finding somewhere to sit. The other challenge is crowding and lines. Before the lunch period, all the students crowd outside the Haskell building. Some argue this mass of students is disorganized and results in line skipping, pushing and general discomfort. As one student puts it, “The cafeteria is cool, but it’s often hard to get in and to leave.” 

While the concerns can be said, there is hope for those worried about the learning curve associated the new building. The Haskell building will provide more space for students to engage with science and technology. The building will also free up the Buck, giving the school space to build more spaces for students and faculty. As one faculty member states, “It [the Haskell building] does an effective job of opening up the campus.” Regarding the lunch period, seniors going off campus for lunch will free up some of the space inside Harden Hall. Once everyone starts to acclimate to the new lunch room, lunch will be easier to navigate.

Despite some difficulties, the Haskell Center for Science and Student Life is an incredible building and a privilege for all of us at Episcopal. With more class space for students, improved facilities, and future renovations to the campus, times are very exciting here on the Episcopal campus.

Image courtesy of Joshua Mason ’27.