Successful Student Unions: Essential Qualities and Best Management Practices

Components

A majority of survey respondents see the following as desired and/or necessary components to a successful, vibrant university center:

• Lounges—places to gather and socialize; places to read and study
• Academic support services—counseling, tutoring, advising
• Classroom space and meeting rooms
• “Non-transactional” student services and organizations—student government, Office of Student Life units
• Information Center—an information clearing-house for students, faculty, staff, and visitors
• Theater or auditorium (500+ seat)
• Food
• Books
• Parking
• Purchases—Cal memorabilia, supplies, sundries
• Wireless networking
• Link to Recreational Sports Facility

In essence, the ideal university center should be a lively, central hub of campus, providing opportunities to socialize and a variety of practical services. Some respondents felt transactional student services (such as the Registrar, Financial Aid, Admissions, etc.) should also be located in the center; this was, however, the minority opinion. Existing buildings with transactional services such as Sproul or Campbell Halls tend to be viewed, particularly by students, as institutional and uninviting.

“It should be like a neighborhood. You see yourself reflected in the neighborhood, see people you know there, and get the services you need.” —Elizabeth Gillis, Campus Community Initiative Coordinator

Physical Space

Respondents expressed great interest in the design of a revitalized university center. Ideas regarding how improved design could build community and increase interaction include:

• Mixed-use approach to space configurations
• Offices and facilities designed on a horizontal rather than vertical plane
• Comfortable places to sit and gather
• Centralized services or logical groupings of services
• Well-maintained, state-of-the-art facilities

The current scattered layout of offices and services makes information gathering and completing tasks difficult and time consuming. In addition, respondents feel that horizontal layout of offices, i.e., on a single floor, would increase interaction between campus groups. Respondents would like to see more seating in a wider variety of seating arrangements to accommodate large and small gatherings as well as formal and informal events.

“It should be a multipurpose location, including loud space as well as quiet space where you can have solitude among people.” —Karen Kenney, Dean of Students

Atmosphere

Universally, respondents envision a university center that is a warm and inviting environment. Qualities frequently mentioned include:

• Welcoming
• Safe
• Relaxing
• Social
• Stimulating
• Diverse

A theme often voiced by respondents was the desire for a university center that feels like the living room of campus. The primary interest is in creating a place that is social rather than academic in nature. It should also be a culturally and intellectually stimulating environment. There is a strong interest in safety—physical safety and an environment in which a variety of opinions may be expressed.

“A safe place. A place that accommodates diverse backgrounds and many different interests.” —Nhi Chau, student, The Californians

Culture

Again, respondents described a university center that:

• Reflects campus diversity
• Shares a common vision
• Emphasizes quality customer service
• Invites students, faculty, staff, and alumni
• Encourages informal interactions between students and faculty
• Capitalizes on being at the heart of a learning community

There is great interest in establishing a university center driven by a common vision shared by students, faculty, and staff. Center policies must reflect that vision and the vision must be inclusive of the greater campus community. A university center should be a place where sub-committees and organizations can plug into the larger campus community. One respondent described it as similar to a “kitchen at a party” where paths cross, conversations take place, and ideas are exchanged. A new center should try to capture and celebrate the unique characteristics of Cal, such as achievements in research and athletics, the Free Speech Movement, etc.

“Cal has much diversity, but not much of a common culture. A new student union could and should get people and students together, should inspire them to connect.” —John Martin, Bear's Lair Manager

Information Technology

The availability of information technology services in a university center was important to respondents, particularly students. Some suggestions include:

• Wireless networking
• Login terminals for general use
• Information kiosks for visitors
• Central web site for information about campus services and events
• Web-based service requests—e.g., for room reservations
• Measures to control theft and access by non-affiliates

The Free Speech Movement Cafe has become a successful community center on a small scale, in part due to its status as a pilot location for AirBears in 2001.

“...create a totally wired, integrated center with cybercafes and wireless connectivity.” —Susanna Castillo-Robson, Registrar