Walsh Jesuit’s two-story glass Rotunda was recently transformed from an imposing entrance into a lounge for the students.  

The Rotunda, which made up part of the original architectural plan for the renovation in 2007, was planned to be used as the main entrance. However, it became clear that the Commons doors were more convenient for the students because of the location of the parking lot. That being the case, the Rotunda was seldom used by students, and only a few visitors and staff entered through the impressive architectural structure.

The decision to find another use for the Rotunda was made by WJ President Mr. Karl Ertle and Business Office Associate Mrs. Vicky Kilway after consulting with numerous adults and students. When asked why the school decided to change the function of the Rotunda, Mr. Ertle said, “It is just such a beautiful place, and it should be used. We also wanted to make the high school more like a college atmosphere for the students.”

The original plan called for making the space a senior only lounge, but it is now open to all students. When asked how she feels about the new student lounge, senior Anna Gruber responded, “I eat lunch in there and I like it, but I was under the impression that it was going to be for seniors only.” Mrs. Kilway explained that if all students are able to eat lunch in the lounge, then students other than seniors may be able to sit at the high top tables in the Commons during lunch. 

The goal is for the lounge to be a place where students “can catch a break,” according to Mr. Ertle. He added that students now have a place to work on homework or cool projects and to further develop friendships. This is also a pleasant location for students to eat lunch as long as they keep the space clean. Silver-topped tables and matching chairs are now set up in the Rotunda for students to use in these ways.