When students return to campus this fall, they will find significant changes to the many of the spaces on the Atlanta Campus that are regular meeting and gathering spaces for students. Several projects were completed this summer to enhance the meeting room space, the lounge spaces, and the dining spaces as well as the overall environment of not only the Student Center but additional spaces utilized for student organization and campus events.
The first-floor Courtyard Café in the Student Center East will have brand new booths, chairs, and tables. The new furniture will have a modern look and design that will allow for students to dine, study, hand out, or just take a break between classes. The new Courtyard Café seating area will be able to accommodate up to 200 people.
On the third floor of the Student Center East, 34 lounge chairs with swivel desks have been reupholstered to refresh the space. Additional benches have been placed in other spaces on the floor to provide more seating for students. In addition, the meeting room chairs utilized in Student Center East and West have been replaced with 602 new chairs.
Veterans Memorial Hall in Dahlberg is undergoing a major renovation to update the facility. When the renovations are completed, it will have a new floor, ceiling tiles, and lighting as well as fresh paint and a built-in audio-visual system. New tables and chairs along with a built-in stage will create a more inviting and engaging space for campus events. The renovation also includes a more welcoming and secure entryway. Once completed, the spaces will be able to accommodate events with up to 250 people.
The West Exhibit Hall on the second floor of the Urban Life Building will also have a new look. The entire area will have new carpet, new lighting, and a large monitor to allow for digital presentations. In addition, a built-in buffet has been added and the reception desk has been removed. The new space will be able to host events up to 96 people.
The changes that have been completed this summer will create more welcoming and inviting spaces for students to gather throughout the year. While social distancing may adjust the capacity of these spaces this fall, students will still be able to enjoy the changes.