Since it opened in early February, the coolest place to be on Bryant’s campus is the new Marion ’81 and Frank Hauck ’81, P’08 Ice Rink. The 80-by-40-foot recreational ice-skating surface was installed between the Unistructure and the Elizabeth and Malcolm Chace Wellness and Athletic Center and is available for use by all Bryant University students, faculty, and staff with Bryant I.D.

Open for the first week that students returned to campus, the Hauck Ice Rink is part of the Be Bryant Strong community health initiative that provides new outdoor opportunities for physical and social activity with appropriate distancing and masking. 

We are so proud to support Madeline and all current students, and help keep them safe and healthy by providing a fun outdoor activity that the entire Bryant community can enjoy.

The rink was made possible by a generous gift from Bryant alumni Marion ’81 and Frank Hauck ’81, P ’08, whose daughter Megan is a member of Bryant’s Class of 2008. Their niece Madeline Mastrianni ’21 is a current Bryant senior.

“We are so proud to support Madeline and all current students, and help keep them safe and healthy by providing a fun outdoor activity that the entire Bryant community can enjoy,” said Marion Hauck. 

The Haucks’ gift provided for the installation, as well as free skate rentals for students, lighting, an adjacent tent, and other equipment. “Since it opened, we’ve been delighted to hear from parents of students letting us know how much they appreciate having the rink on campus,” said Frank. “We’re both so happy with how it has turned out.”

President Ross Gittell expressed gratitude to the Haucks for their gift at the rink’s opening, and Director of Athletics Bill Smith skated a ceremonial first lap, saying “Outdoor exercise is a key element of our recreational programming, and what better way to get out and exercise than to skate around in the New England fresh air?” 

The rink will remain open as long as the weather allows, Monday through Friday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, noon to 3 p.m., and 6 to 9 p.m. Masks are required and all participants are asked to observe social distancing. Skates are available at no cost and can be checked out at the control desk in the lobby of the Chace Athletic Center.