Over the summer, the professional writing major officially moved locations from the Nussbaum Science Center to Rupp Communication Arts Center following the announcement of the new nursing program. The transition began after the Spring 2023 semester.
Linda Taylor, assistant professor of professional writing, said the professional writing program used to be in Sickler Hall but later moved to Rupp room 104. It then moved to Nussbaum due to lack of space in Rupp.
Nussbaum room 205 — the professional writing program’s home for over a decade — will be converted into an instructional space for prospective nursing students.
The transition comes in the midst of preparations for the new nursing program.
Once a one-professor department, the professional writing major is now housed with three other Communication Department majors in Rupp: public relations, communication and multimedia journalism.
“It is fantastic to have Linda and professional writing students over here with us,” Jeff Groeling, Communication Department chair, said. “I understand (the professional writing major) moved because of the nursing program, (but) I hope the space together will be better for everyone.”
However, there are some things that Rupp can’t replace.
Taylor said there are things from Nussbaum that they miss, such as their hallway of bulletin boards and display cases. However, they are happy to finally be a part of the Communication Department and create new displays to showcase their publications, she said. Taylor added that everyone is invited to view the new Rupp TVs that showcase activities in the department as a whole.
The close-knit community is a unique feature of the professional writing program.
Since the major moved to Rupp, senior Laurel Burgess, a professional writing major, enjoys seeing her professors more and feels that the professional writing community from Nussbaum is still strong.
One of her favorite memories was being impressed when she first met the professional writing students.
“I’ve never been around so many people like me,” Burgess said.
For senior Charis Negley, a professional writing major, the couches were a great space to have writing groups and plan events with other professional writing majors.
Another traditional feature of the professional writing community is the brag board, showcasing each student’s published work. This board continues to attract interest in the program.
Despite the bittersweet transition, Negley hopes the nursing program will benefit Taylor University.
“It makes me sad, but that’s what comes along with change,” she said. “I am very glad the space is opening up for the nursing students and look forward to what that program will bring to Taylor.”
The professional writing major has its fair share of memories. Negley recounted the nights before retreats when students would spend hours making decorations and playing music.
Because of the professional writing program’s unique community, Negley said the Rupp transition won’t have a major effect on attracting new students.
“The space does not define our major; it’s all about the people,” she said.
Negley added that the program will continue to grow as long as professors and students are excited about it.
Overall, the transition brings new opportunities and experiences to campus.
“(There are) sad memories (and) happy memories, but I think overall it’ll be a great adventure either way,” Burgess said.
