In recent years, Dixon Recreation Center has launched multiple initiatives to make it a more welcoming place for students.

Dixon hosts Empower Hours every Thursday evening from 5:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. Empower Hours offer a designated space in Weight Room 1 for Women, Trans, and Nonbinary students.

Empower Hours began in Spring 2024, but this Fall term increased from once per month to once per week. There are opportunities for independent strength training and more involved activities with Personal Trainers and Sports Fitness and Wellness Representatives.

“Once per month, we focus on community-building among participants, reserving more space for them to engage and connect. During the other weeks, we emphasize education, helping participants navigate the busy weight room and complete workouts in potentially intimidating spaces at peak times,” said Cathy Sullivan, the Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness.

Affinity Climb Nights began in Fall term of 2022 as Adventure Club events, but over time have become more frequent events with specific outreach goals.

There are currently three different Affinity Climb Nights. Queer, Women, Trans, and Nonbinary, and BIPOC climb nights are offered approximately once per month. More information and upcoming dates can be found here.

The events are typically Friday evenings from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. and involve free use of materials like climbing shoes as well as training in techniques like belaying.

“The fact that it’s free and that other queer people are there creates a much more welcoming and encouraging atmosphere, that’s definitely what stands out to me,” said Ruby Salvatti, a first year botany student who has attended Queer and Women, Trans, and Nonbinary Affinity Climb Nights.

According to Emily Abrams, ALI operations manager, Affinity Climb Nights involve collaboration with multiple cultural centers on campus.

“We’re also looking to start International Student nights and are interested in piloting some Adaptive Climbing nights,” Abrams said.

Dixon also holds irregular Pride Swim nights as well as hosts ASOSU’s Hijabi/Women’s swim nights.

“Dixon does work hard to create a welcome and inclusive environment. I think there’s certain things they could do differently in the gym, but I do think the Empower hour events, the Affinity Climb events, do really help to make it more inclusive and bring in a broader range of people,” said Rose Kurzenhauser, a second year Biochemistry student.