“Labyrinths, which are ancient patterns large enough to be walked or small enough to be traced with the finger, represent tools for cultivating mindful habits. Mindfulness is the contemplative practice of focusing the attention on the present, non-judgmentally (…) Amid a culture that rewards speed and “busyness,” contemplative practice proposes a radical innovation for teaching and learning.” (Source: http://sched.co/3NFC)

Since 2016, I have been working on the initiative to build a walking labyrinth at the Carleton campus. That year, with support of President Runte, and the help of my colleagues, I designed and built a temporary walking labyrinth in the quad, the space I see daily through my office window in Dunton Tower. Please check the blog post I wrote about the installation.

Walking Labyrinth in the quad - 2016; temporary installation / With a colleague and a helping hand Ryan Kuhne

The walking labyrinth lasted for a couple of years, during which time I maintained it to the best of my ability. Eventually, due to the temporary nature of the installation, I had to remove it. However, my hope for a permanent installation somewhere at the campus, remains. 

I am extremely grateful that Carleton's President Bacon was also supportive and interested in this initiative, as soon as I presented it to him. President Bacon put me in touch with different groups and departments and I am currently working with them on possible approaches to this initiative. I remain hopeful, considering Carleton's interest and continuous investment in the mental health of students and staff.