Selah Vetter / Staff Writer
After extensive renovation, Samford’s University Center officially reopened with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, Oct. 3.
Faculty, staff, alumni and students joined together to commemorate the finished University Center at the Talbird Circle entrance. The new renovations include offices for the Division of Student Affairs, additional gathering and study spaces, a new food court, renovated post office and bookstore.
“Today we celebrate the renewal of the building,” Samford President Andrew Westmoreland said.
The renovation of the University Center cost $20 million. The renovation is part of phase two of the campus master plan. Phase two costs $50 to $70 million.
Samford’s a cappella choir opened the ceremony with a rendition of “Alma Mater”. SGA President Heath Padgett gave an opening prayer.
The ceremony rededicated the University Center as the Ralph W. Beeson University Center. The building was the original cafeteria and performing arts center at the university.
“The building holds special memories for generations of Samford students,” Westmoreland said.
Westmoreland recognized members of the construction and planning process. These members joined together to cut the ribbon to officially open the University Center.
“There are many people to thank and recognize,” Westmoreland said.
Westmoreland hopes the University Center will be a gathering and community-driven place for current and future Samford students.
