A More Perfect Union
Fall 2020 | By Jenna Marina Lee
The long-awaited renovation of the Student Union finished its final phase just in time to welcome students back to campus in August.
An additional 33,000 square feet were added to the building, which originally opened in 1997. Although the atrium remains unchanged — the beloved UCF seal is still very much intact — the building now offers expanded dining options, including a full-service Starbucks on the second floor and an additional 350 seating options.
The Reflection Room, an inclusive meditation and prayer room, is open to individuals of all faiths on the first floor.
The three-year, $23 million project also saw the addition of two gender-neutral bathrooms and the university’s first dedicated space for Student Government senate chambers for students and faculty, which includes a permanent electronic voting system as well as state-of-the-art projection and sound systems.
The Student Union has modified operations and policies during the pandemic to maintain the health and well-being of the university community and visitors, but still remains committed to its reputation as the “heart of campus.”
“The Student Union is a special place for all Knights, and this expansion allows us to offer many new services while still fostering the sense of community that we’ve always been known for.”
— Rick Falco ’98 ’01MA, director of the Student Union
Students wear face coverings while studying in the Student Union.
The new full-service Starbucks is open on the second floor.
A new staircase in the Student Union.
The new dedicated space for Student Government senate chambers.
With renovations complete, the Student Union’s patio and boardwalk are open again.