Last summer, the Student Union began receiving cosmetic updates to make it a more inviting, vibrant and engaging place for students. With students returning soon for the start of the spring semester, the work is nearly complete.
The first of several phases included painting
the walls, ceiling and ductwork. In the second phase, new furniture, six
flat-panel televisions, and an upgraded sound system were added. The computer
stations at the west end of the space were removed in favor of those located in
the nearby Library Information Commons. Soft seating will soon replace the
computers. A ping-pong table has also been added.
In addition, the counter at The Bean was
replaced with a more rounded version, and high stools were added for seating at
the counter and nearby. This will create more space for students, faculty and
staff who utilize The Bean and the Union as a whole.
“The Union is a unique space that allows
students to enjoy their meals and hang out with friends without the usual restrictions
of a formal dining hall,” said Stephanie Coker, president of the Student
Government Association. “It is also one of the only spaces on campus where
students, faculty and staff converge regularly.”
These upgrades were a collaborative effort of
the Student Development unit and the Student Government Association (SGA). The
project was paid for by a combination of SGA and student fees, and was led by
Matt Goodwin, assistant dean of students.
The project is not considered part of the University’s
master space plan. Additional changes to the Union will be considered as part
of the master space planning process, which is expected to commence sometime this
year.