Campus Connection

Student Union Grand Opening runs Jan. 23-29

The new Student Union opens Jan. 23-29 with special events each day, along with numerous ribbon cutting ceremonies, an illusionist, hip-hop violinist, hypnotist and more. A community open house is set from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29. The four-story, $55 million building funded by student fees is 204,287-square-feet — nearly twice the size of Cartwright. It offers spaces for student socialization, recreation, studying, eating, entertainment and more. It will also house the Bookstore, Textbook Rental, UWL’s student organizations and some campus offices, including Admissions. The U’s many features are four inside fireplaces, multiple areas for dining and a catbird’s seat for listening to music in the entertainment café. The new “living room” of the campus provides many modern conveniences, says University Centers Director Larry Ringgenberg. “It’s larger with comfortable gathering spaces for individuals and group interactions,” says Ringgenberg. “Students can recharge personally or technologically.” There will be daily tours of the building, prize giveaways and special visits by Stryker. Check out the grand opening website for all events, times and locations: www.uwlax.edu/university-centers/uwl-student-union/grand-opening-events/