August

SSB remodel: The first floor

Find out how the updated first floor of the Student Success Building helps Roadrunners feel at home.

By Cory Phare

August 29, 2017

If you’ve been in the Student Success Building lately, you’ll no doubt have noticed some new digs throughout. More than just a fresh coat of paint, however, it’s all to help students feel a welcome connection to their University.

We caught up with Tina Wells, interim director and construction-project manager for facilities planning, to find out what’s new and how it helps Roadrunners of every feather find a new nest of their own.

What was the impetus behind the first-floor remodel?
We often hear from MSU Denver students that they do not have a place to call home. Since the Student Success Building’s core purpose is student success, we felt it was the perfect location for a student hangout and lounge space.

What are some of the specific enhancements and improvements?
We’ve added a lot of new furniture, including high café tables that have both power and USB connections; there’s also a soft lounge for a more comfortable feel.

We’ve also created a new tour-launch space, which Admissions uses for hosting tours, and an additional lounge under the staircase to offer yet another option. In addition, the former Center for Innovation, Suite 120, has been converted into a Student Lounge, with soft seating, café tables, a TV and fireplace to provide ambience.

What has the reaction been like from the University community?
The response has been very positive. Since many of the spaces didn’t open until after the completion of the spring semester, we are excited to see students really start to use the space with the start of the fall term.

What do you hope the MSU Denver community gains from the remodel?
A space that MSU Denver students want to hang out in, collaborate on projects in and call their home.