MSUM STUDENTS RETURN qo remodeled student union

FEATURES INCLUDE MORE LIGHT, COFFEE HOUSE ATMOSPHERE, FIREPLACES AND MORE

Originally constructed in the mid-1960s, Minnesota State University Moorhead’s Comstock Memorial Union hadn’t been renovated since 1992. Having not been fully refurbished since before most MSUM students were born, it was time for an upgrade.

During the fall semester in 2011, the task of renovating the student union was initiated. Comstock Memorial Union director Layne Anderson was an instrumental part of the renovation process, leading conversations with students, faculty, staff, administrators and architects. The priorities identified prior to breaking ground in May 2015 were narrowed down to include daylight, space with a coffee house atmosphere, a welcoming entry, social lounge spaces and a fireplace.

Words by LEXI BYLER ,

MSUM Marketing Intern

Photography by DAVE ARNTSON, MSUM Photographer

“A welcoming entry was incredibly important to students. Especially from multiple perspectives,” said Anderson.

The building was handicap accessible pre-renovation but not in the most convenient way. Students wanted a more welcoming entry to all students, including those with disabilities. Now, at the main entrance, a large ramp sits front and center, allowing for easy access to the entire lower level of the student union.

Not only is the building more accessible, it’s more open. An assortment of fur- niture and plenty of open space makes it much easier to maneuver. There are over 20 seating variations with different pops of color to form a bright and fun atmosphere.

Student body president Charles Bergman was one of the first students to utilize the renewed building. As a senior, he had gotten used to the outdated look and was pleasantly surprised by the changes.

“Before the renovation, it was a lot more closed off, a lot more separation. It wasn’t as open as it is now,” said Bergman. “I’ve already picked out a few of my favorite chairs.”

With a budget of approximately $9 million, the university had large goals for the new student union. Not only did they plan to remodel the existing 34,000 square foot structure, but they also would add an additional 3,400 square feet to the building.

The campus community can now enjoy the comfort of a new atmosphere and new dining experiences. With the addition of SubConnection, Wholly Habaneros, Wow! Café and Wingery and Jamba Juice, as well as a newly renovated Starbucks, the array of choices are enough to please anyone’s taste buds.

While the new food choices are exciting, the student union is for much more than eating. It’s a place where students can study, hold meetings and socialize.

“It’s a place where students can feel safe, talk to other students, can do homework, have places to go to eat. It’s essentially their home away from home,” Bergman said.

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