October 31, 2001
Photo courtesy of Lorig Associates SU President the Rev. Stephen V. Sundborg |
Seattle University yesterday topped out its $34 million student center on the school's Capitol Hill campus.
The three-story, 64,000-square-foot center is expected to open in September 2002. It will house a variety of student service offices, the new Maguire Campus Ministry Center, and dining and meeting facilities.
"The new student facility will realize our dream of a campus center that nurtures a sense of community," said SU President the Rev. Stephen V. Sundborg (pictured signing the beam). "It will provide a central location for students to study, socialize and have access to services with a home-like atmosphere."
A focal point of the student center is a three-story ashlar granite fireplace in the atrium entry. In addition, the center will house two new collegia -- home-like spaces with kitchen facilities and study areas -- set aside for commuter students. Showers and lockers will also be available for students who commute via bicycle.
A skybridge will connect several residential buildings across East Cherry/East James Way to the student center and directly to campus. The main food facility for campus will be housed in the building.
The project architect is BJSS Duarte Bryant and the contractor is Baugh Construction Co. Lorig Associates is the project manager.
Funding for the project, which includes a 14,000-square-foot renovation in an adjacent building, has enjoyed broad support from alumni and community leaders. Private donations to date exceed $17 million.
