Galloway, New Jersey – In addition to wandering around the Multicultural Center, searching for books and supplies in the bookstore, or picking up mail in the mailroom, students also have the option of enjoying their own quiet time in F-012’s new meditation room. will be available.
The meditation room was previously adjacent to the N-Wing Nest food hall and provided a quiet space for students to meditate, pray, and quietly reflect on their days on campus. The room changes will make spaces more accessible and easier to find on the Galloway campus.
The Muslim Students Association (MSA), which uses the space for its five daily prayers (salahs), celebrated the opening of its new space on Tuesday, September 12th.
Hamza Murad, a biology major and MSA Religious Chair, introduced the audience to the concept and importance of “Bismillah il-Rahman il-Rahim” or “In the name of God, the Benevolent, the Merciful.” The celebration began. ”
“Everything we do (as Muslim students) starts with ‘Bismillah,’” Murad explained. “Everything of value starts there, when you try to eat food, drive a car, or walk into a room like this. Today is a very exciting day and what the future holds. I look forward to seeing what happens.”
Huda Waheed, a health sciences major and vice president of MSA, praised Stockton for caring about the whole body of his students.
“Stockton gives us (the richness of) mind, body and soul,” Huda said. “Our bodies have I-Wing gyms and Big Blues, and our minds are intellectually stimulated. But what about our souls? It’s very important that we have this room where we can relax and feel a sense of belonging.”
Zikra Naz giving a welcome speech
Students checking out the new space
Naz, Huda Waheed and Fatima Khawaja pose for a photo
Students checking out the new space
Students, staff, faculty, and President Joe take a group photo in the meditation room.
Sign to the meditation room, F-012
Zikra Naz, a social work major and MSA president, emphasized that although the room is an MSA-sponsored project, the new space is intended for use by everyone on campus, regardless of religious affiliation. did.
“This is a space for everyone on campus,” Naz said. “Anyone can come here to pray and fulfill their religious obligations. This is also a meditation room, so those who want to meditate or are looking for peace and quiet are welcome.
“This new space means many things to different people. But for Muslim students, this is a reminder that Allah God (SWT) will open any closed door. He is al-Fattah (the one who opens all things) and is just like the door to a new room of prayer and meditation.This room is a place of peace, contemplation, and unity for all students on campus. May it be a safe place for you to practice your faith freely, Armeen!
Craig Stambaugh, assistant vice president for engagement and community development to the dean of students, and Diane Sterling, associate director of student development, helped MSA establish the new meditation room. Both were impressed with the students and the leadership they showed.
“If I have a student who is trying to write a proposal to get something done, I will direct them to MSA leadership,” Stambaugh said. “I had never seen a proposal that worked so well. The proposal included what was missing in the old space, what was needed in the new space, and they did their research. This is the essence of student leadership.”
“This was a labor of love,” Stalling emphasized. “And I would like to thank not only our office, Craig and Event Services, but also the facilities and administration and all the students who supported this. This was a team effort and I think it was the first time I saw this room. I was in awe.”
“This accomplishment exemplifies the power of students coming together, perseverance, and the power of the university to listen to student voices and take meaningful action,” Naz said.
– Story by Loukaia Taylor
– Photo: Lizzie Niels
