January
2009
|
||||
|
||||
It was a desire to follow in his family’s tradition of public service that led newly elected 127th Civil District Court Judge Ravi Sandill to run for public office. 
Students Promote $100 Million Renovation of UC
When it opened in 1967, the University Center quickly became the campus "living room" – offering students the latest in lounging comfort, dining and entertainment options.The facility continues to serve a vital role for students, faculty and staff. But after more than 40 years without a major renovation, it needs a face-lift.
The upgrade, which would be performed in phases and completed by 2014, would include additional study and meeting spaces for student organizations, a centralized conference center, more retail and dining options, new outdoor lounging spaces, an outdoor amphitheater, and a sleek new design.
"We wanted something that would look like the sort of next-generation facility that is really going to make people proud to be a Cougar," said Micah Kenfield, a senior linguistics major who served as co-chair of the UC 2010 Initiative – the student-led initiative to renovate the University Center.
The improvement project would be paid for with student fees, which would gradually increase from the current $35 a semester to $160 a semester in 2014. The first $25 a semester increase wouldn’t go into effect until 2010.
Though the increase is significant, the eventual return on the investment will be well worth it, Kenfield said.
"We’ve been telling people it’s their first contribution as an alumnus," he said. "A lot of the students feel like it is not that much to ask for with all we are giving them in exchange.
"The renovations would bring a new life to the University Center, which first opened its doors Feb. 13, 1967. At that time, the $5 million building was considered state-of-the-art, with a 1,200 person ballroom, a 500-seat cafeteria, a formal lounge for entertaining and receptions, and a variety of retail options. It was funded with a $6 student-services fee and served a student population of about 20,000 students.
Kenfield said he is hoping all necessary approval will be received in July, in time for the search for a professional design team to begin in fall 2009.
| © 2009 The University of Houston, 4800 Calhoun Road, Houston, Texas 77004 Get Driving Directions 713-743-2255 | ||
| UH System | State of Texas | Policies | Emergency Site | Feedback |