The UMass Recwell climbing facility Ascend, located on the first floor of the Fieldstone residential building on the corner of Massachusetts and Lincoln avenues, was recognized at the 2025 NIRSA Conference as one of four collegiate recreation sites to receive an Outstanding Facilities Award.

The award, presented at the organization’s conference in Orlando in April, recognizes the innovative designs of new, renovated or expanded collegiate recreational facilities of NIRSA member institutions, considering factors such as the facility’s design, functionality and impact on the school’s recreation program.

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Ascend opened in January 2024. At more than 2,300 square feet with a bouldering wall over 14 feet high, the facility can accommodate up to 50 routes and as many as 40 climbers at one time. A climbing orientation is provided, and equipment is available for checkout, decreasing barriers to participation often cited by novice climbers. The facility also hosts climbing competitions and teambuilding climbs, further expanding its reach. On average, 150-200 people are utilizing the climbing wall daily.

Constructed by EP Climbing with architectural design firms DiMella Shaffer and Levy Dykema, Ascend was designed to not only encourage physical activity but foster a sense of belonging in the campus community while providing a physical fitness opportunity for students looking for an alternative to some of the more traditional fitness center offerings such as cardio machines or weightlifting.

“Climbing is inherently inclusive—it meets students where they are, supports mental and physical well-being, and helps them build confidence through movement and community,” shares JoAnne Carilli-Stevenson, sales and customer service director for EP Climbing.

The space also features a lounge area with a fireplace and an outdoor courtyard with fire pits, creating a welcoming environment for relaxation and socializing that the award committee members found especially impressive.