Education

NIU To Reopen Remodeled Portion Of Student Center

Northern Public Radio

Published October 24, 2019 at 4:10 PM CDT

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The remodeled areas have more windows and places to sit.

Chase Cavanaugh

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A new grab-and-go area is part of the remodeled area.

Chase Cavanaugh

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NIU employees prepare the new bookstore location for customers. The university is partnering with Follett to run the store.

Chase Cavanaugh

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Part of the OASIS shared workspace. The large stands can be used as whiteboards, and the back area contains "huddle rooms" for small groups.

Chase Cavanaugh

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Another view of the OASIS from the upper level.

Chase Cavanaugh

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Starbucks employees prepare their wares for the opening.

Chase Cavanaugh

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Students had some input on the choice of furniture, including these rotating chairs.

Chase Cavanaugh

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Part of a nearly completed hotel check-in counter and information desk

Chase Cavanaugh

Northern Illinois University will open up the remodeled first floor of its student center Saturday.

Construction focused on turning the first floor of Holmes Student Center into a hub for student activity. This includes greater views to the outside and more lounge space to sit or meet with others. Dean of Students Kelly Wesener-Michael says a major improvement is a shared workspace called the OASIS.

“It’s an opportunity for our student leaders and student organization members to be in the heart of campus, really showcasing what involvement and leadership on our campus looks like, and really make a connection to the greater campus," she said.

The OASIS will allow student organizations to move out of the nearby campus life building. The first floor is also home to the university’s new bookstore and a Starbucks franchise. NIU is also putting finishing touches on improvements to the Huskie Den student space. That will open in mid-November.