New Student Union changes life outside the classroom

Campus "living room" offers new dining options, a theatre, entertainment, a bookstore, and a brand new way to watch Carthage football

Students returning to Carthage have begun using the brand new Student Union as their own living room. Located at the heart of campus, near the residence halls, the Union gives students a place to relax and put their feet up.

"I love it," said Julie Gosselin, '15, of Kenosha, Wis. "It's really comfortable and cozy."

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The grand opening for the Student Union was held Friday, Sept. 9. Scores of students gathered during the lunch hour. Students helped to plan the feel and look of the building, which hosts three new dining options: Jamba Juice, World of Wings Café & Wingery, and Baja Fresh Express. Those who weren't hungry could play pool or foosball, or have their pictures taken with Torchie, the College's mascot. About a dozen students enjoyed a performance by Alfa, an acoustic pop and folk singer, whose show created a coffeehouse vibe adjacent to the bookstore.

"I think the coolest part about it is that it has something for everyone," said Bree McMahon, '12, of Appleton, Wis. "It has something for every kind of occasion. If you want to watch the (football) games with hot chocolate, Seattle's Best Coffee is right by the field. If you want to study by the fireplace and hang out with people, you can move the chairs around and do that. No matter what you want to do, you can find a way to do it in the Student Union. You can watch a movie, you can be by yourself, you can max out on food. It's just very versatile."

Giving students a space all their own

Bradley Andrews, senior vice president for academic resources, called the Union the latest example of Carthage's continuing efforts to provide a college experience that students respect and hold affection for.

"Our ultimate focus is to serve our students, and to make their college experience the best it can possibly be," he said. "At Carthage, life outside the classroom is valued just as highly as the academic experience."

"I have a tremendous level of curiosity about how students are going to turn the building into their own space, which was the whole purpose," said William Hoare, associate vice president for business. "Every square inch possible delivers a service to students."

The Student Union sits across Campus Drive from Todd Wehr Center and next to the Tarble Athletic and Recreation Center. "It was important to find a common place where students could come together, both commuters and residents," said Dean of Students Louise Paskey. "It will help to show the vibrancy on campus."

The Union also boasts The Corner Store, a small convenience store; and Seattle's Best Coffee. Students can now enjoy these food outlets as well as two pool tables, a foosball table, and gaming space.

"It's nice to have somewhere to go for commuters to get lunch, hang out with friends, or study," said Jennifer May, '15, of Kenosha. "It's nice to come here between classes, so we don't have to leave campus and come back."

New Game Day experience

While the Union was designed for students, alumni and visitors will also feel at home. The structure was once the Seidemann Natatorium, and Mr. Hoare pointed out that a seven-foot beam along the western wall of the bookstore originally held up the west wall of the natatorium. Another beam was taken down, and converted into butcher block, counter and table tops, and benches.

New stands and a picturesque patio can be enjoyed by Carthage fans on game days at Art Keller Field, which has become one of the most attractive facilities in Division III athletics.

Upstairs, the Union has a 200-seat theatre and space dedicated to displaying student art. The Carthage Activities Board helped to design the theatre to meet the needs of artists and entertainers interested in performing at the College.

"CAB is very excited to be granted the use of the theatre," says Director of Student Activities Nina Fleming. "We're very fortunate." The theatre will host CAB's popular Wednesday and Saturday night movies as well as other events.

"I can't wait to kick back and enjoy all the great movies in the brand new theatre," says Erin Sass, '12, of Faribault, Minn.

An exciting year

The Todd Wehr Center will continue to provide students with extended space for formal organizational meetings, but the Student Center offers a comfortable, informal gathering place where students can go to socialize, even after quiet hours. "I picture students going over there to eat meals together, to have meetings together, whether it be student organizations or study groups," said Ms. Fleming.

"I like it a lot," Dillon Emerson, '15, of Kenosha, said of the building. "The library's just too quiet" as a place to hang out. "This is a good place to meet up with friends."

On completion of the $14 million project, Mr. Hoare said he experienced an emotional feeling of release and accomplishment.

"It was a tough project," he said, due to soil conditions, the need to work around utilities, and the repositioning of Campus Drive. "What kept me going was knowing the services the building would deliver to our students."

The new Student Union will undoubtedly change life at Carthage for all students.