The new student gathering spaces on all three campuses are anticipated to open in 2019
An artist’s rendering of a proposed new student union at CSN
LAS VEGAS, March 2 – The Board of Regents today approved student-backed plans for student union buildings on all three CSN campuses.
Students have overwhelmingly supported adding central gathering spaces to the community college’s campuses. Most colleges and universities the size of CSN have student unions.
“CSN’s students are excited to add the final vote of approval and support for the student union buildings on all three main CSN campuses,” said CSN’s student body president, Jill Robinson. “After much hard work, student outreach and research, it is clear the students have a need for space to collaborate, uninterrupted study space, and healthier dining options. They desire meeting and event space, too, especially for clubs and the student government.”
The approval today by the Regents will increase student fees to pay for the construction and operation of the three facilities. The total cost is estimated to be nearly $80 million. The fees will include an $8 per-credit registration fee, effective this fall, a $3 per-credit fee for summer courses beginning in 2018, both for construction, and a $1 per-credit hour fee effective in the fall 2019, the anticipated completion date, for operation and maintenance.
“We will minimize the impact on students by using a single design for all three buildings,” said Sherri Payne, Senior Associate Vice President of Facilities Management. “This significantly cuts down on costs.”
“We have heard from student leaders for years about the need for student unions on our campuses, and we are delighted to finally be meeting that need,” said CSN President Michael Richards. “We know that students who feel more connected to their campuses are more likely to succeed, which is our goal in everything we do.”