N.C. Central University’s English Department opened the door to the Writing Center on Sept. 30, a door that would have been opened sooner if not for a lack of funding and staff.

The purpose of the Writing Center is to help students improve their writing skills.

There has been a writing center in the past, although it was staffed by instructors, which is not true to the Center’s concept.

“The center is supposed to be staffed by the students,” said English professor Frances Nelson, one of the program’s coordinators. “[Students] feel less intimidated by their peers.”

The new staff members are four NCCU English graduate students.

The idea for a writing center has been on the table for years. However, it took Chancellor James Ammons to get the initial funding for it.

More funds are needed for equipment, such as computers and books, and to pay the staff.

The Writing Center is located in room 317, on the third floor of the Farrison-Newton Communications building.