Florida State University
IN-25: Innovation B

The journey to a labyrinth on campus began when a group of students, faculty, and staff discussed the possibility of developing a fully accessible space on campus dedicated to reflection. From the beginning, the process of developing a labyrinth for FSU has been collaborative, drawing in diverse voices across divisions and departments. The Labyrinth Working Group consisting of staff and faculty from Facilities, Grounds and Planning, the Center for Leadership and Social Change, Campus Recreation, University Housing, and the Student Disability Resource Center. The FSU Master Craftsman Studio assisted in developing art and signage welcoming individuals into the space. The labyrinth was designed and constructed as a place to walk and to reflect, think critically about a question or problem, connect with your physical self, reduce stress, experience gratitude, inspire creativity, or grieve. To fulfil this objective for all students and staff, the Labyrinth was designed to be ADA accessible. The paths were created wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and those walking to pass one another with ease and stay in reflection. All signage is translated in ASL, welcoming diverse audiences to the space. The labyrinth was thoughtfully placed between the Department of Psychology and College of Medicine to highlight the impact of physical and mental health and wellness for personal sustainability. The labyrinth is utilized in trainings as a reminder to stop, reflect, and connect in our work and lives. All the plants in the labyrinth are native and tolerate of Florida weather patterns to minimize the need for watering.