Published On: Fri, Apr 14th, 2017

Lynn University to break ground on $35 Million University Center

Lynn University will break ground Thursday, April 20, on the Christine E. Lynn University Center. The 11 a.m. ceremony will take place at the heart of campus and will feature guest speakers, food and drink, a unique photo opportunity, virtual reality renderings, and remarks from the namesake donor, Christine E. Lynn.

“Mrs. Lynn is our university’s strongest supporter, through both her leadership as our board of trustees chair and her unparalleled generosity as a donor,” says Lynn President Kevin M. Ross. “We are excited to come together as a campus to thank Mrs. Lynn for her latest gift—the largest gift in our university’s history—as well as the other donors inspired by her giving.”

The university center is the final component of the Lynn 2020 strategic plan. It has been in the works since October 2015, and was made possible thanks to a $15 million challenge grant offered by Mrs. Lynn. Construction is expected to begin immediately following the groundbreaking.

“Our goal in designing the university center is to embrace student-centered activities and drive energy on campus,” says Cliff Bollman, project manager for Gensler, architects of the Lynn University Center. “Small touches, like utilizing daylight design, will help students remain connected with each other, feel connected to campus and be encouraged to get involved.”

The new 65,000-square-foot, three-story building will be home to the university’s Center for Student Involvement, offering large multi-purpose rooms for student organizations, classes and events, as well as traditional conference areas and staff offices. Its revamped Christine’s café and new Elaine’s multipurpose dining area will provide ample space for socializing and expressing creativity. Student services will be relocated to the university center from around campus, including Career Connections, the Center for Learning Abroad, a modernized Campus Store, expansion of the university’s award-winning 24/7 dining experience and a new mail room. The facility’s additional special event spaces and its west- and north-facing balconies will overlook sporting facilities and the Wold Performing Arts Center, offering students and guests pleasant campus and sunset views.

“The Christine E. Lynn University Center is the largest project we have ever undertaken on our campus,” continues Ross. “This game-changing building, which we have dreamed about for a while, will combine social and learning spaces and be a one-stop destination for our students.”

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