Now more than just a place for students to relax, Sandburg’s newly transformed Student Center also gives them a central location to access the services available to help them succeed.
A grand reopening celebration for the Student Center, which underwent substantial renovations for much of the last year, took place Thursday afternoon as the public was invited to take in the space’s eye-popping transformation.
“What began as a vision to update our facilities has transformed into something far more significant: a reimagining of what student life can be here at Sandburg,” said Autumn Scott, vice president of student development. “The renovated spaces you see around you today represent our commitment to creating an environment where Chargers can connect, collaborate and create.”
The interior configuration of the building was altered to provide a more open feel, and the renovation also brought many of the college’s student services — including advising, academic support, counseling, TRIO Student Support Services, student engagement, financial aid and recruitment — under the same roof.
“This integrated approach reflects our dedication to removing barriers and supporting student success at every turn,” Scott said.
Fresh carpet, upgraded lighting and a large assortment of new furnishings give the Student Center a modern look. It also features an Innkeeper’s Coffee location and includes collaborative study rooms for students seeking more privacy.
Renovation work began in May 2024, and the building initially reopened to students last month as they returned from spring break. Part of the planning process for the redesign included gathering input from students on some of the spaces and services they’d like to see in the Student Center.
“I’m very happy (the students) got to see this before they graduate and go off to other places,” President Dr. Seamus Reilly said. “They believed they were doing something that would benefit future generations of students, and that’s a testament to their own vision and their own commitment to what it means to be to be educated.”
The Student Center remodel checks off another box on an updated campus master plan for improvements and developments at Sandburg. The building is connected to the newly constructed Science & Technology Center, which opened at the start of the current academic year.
“The energy and activity over the past few weeks have been very exciting, and I think it paints a great picture for current students and future students to look forward to here at Sandburg,” said Zair Ruiz Velazquez, who serves as the college’s student trustee.
Velazquez said that in just the handful of weeks since the Student Center reopened, he’s noticed a significant difference in how much the area is used, and he’s heard positive feedback from his classmates about its modern look, spaciousness, vibrant colors and gathering areas.
“Watching this area be utilized adds to that sense of community I was searching for in a college,” Velazquez said. “Now, with the addition of our new Student Center, I feel that our sense of community is stronger than ever.”
***Courtesy of Carl Sandburg College***
