A new look for University Centre?

UMSU and the university join forces to take on UC

VERONICA CARR STAFF

Recently the University of Manitoba and UMSU have been questioning University Centre’s (UC) role on campus. Whether or not it’s up to par with student standards or if the space is being used effectively are some of the questions arising in a newly formed working group.

Since UC’s construction in 1970 there have been a lot of changes on campus and student demands have shifted. The working group is looking to explore options of revitalizing, renewing and renovating the first three floors of UC to ensure the facility is still serving students.

“University Centre is a popular place for students and it has a lot of resources that we want to see functioning at their best. If there is an option for improvement we want to take advantage of it,” commented Amanda Jonson, UMSU vicepresident (internal) and member of the working group.

As last semester concluded, a letter of notification was sent to all UC tenants asking them for input on possible renewals for the building. According to UMSU, the next process of deliberation will include more student feedback.

“We’re looking at talking to senior sticks and possibly holding a town hall meeting to include as many students as possible,” Jonson continues.

Since this past summer, the working group has met every few months to better understanding some of the challenges and issues around a possible revitalization. On Jan. 15, UMSU will officially open a new lounge in room 312 University Centre, where Movie Village used to be located.

If the working group decides further changes are in order, the project would span over a number of years.

“It’s a great thing to start thinking about — are there any changes you would make?” asks Jonson.