June 07, 2011

Student Center to celebrate golden anniversary

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- A popular Southern Illinois University Carbondale landmark is celebrating its golden anniversary and everyone is welcome at the Student Center re-dedication festivities on Friday, June 10.
The ceremony is set for 1:30 p.m. in the Student Center fountain courtyard with a reception and refreshments immediately following in the John W. Corker Lounge. A variety of displays at the Student Center will highlight the many programs and services offered by the facility through the years, as well as the physical changes and evolution of the building. Alumni, students, former and current employees and community members may also enjoy building tours, upon request, during the reception from 2 to 3 p.m.
“The Student Center has evolved and changed over the years as each generation of Salukis have made their way through our halls. As the living room of the campus, we continue to find ways to embrace each decade, building on a solid foundations of programs, services and facilities that enhance the quality of campus life for all students, faculty and staff,” said Lori Stettler, assistant vice chancellor for auxiliary services.
The dedication of the Student Center was June 10, 1961, and the facility has played a significant role in campus life since that time. Expanded in the early 1970s, the Student Center has in its half-century hosted countless events and programs. In conjunction with the center’s 50th anniversary, University employees recently completed a total renovation of the fountain, now refurbished and operational, and the surrounding courtyard.