Student Union

Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) is a large campus located in Richmond, VA, encompassing 11 schools and 5 colleges. At the heart of campus is the  massive student center, the Commons, which experiences heavy foot traffic during peak academic hours.

Outside academic buildings, residence halls, and offices, there aren’t many spaces on campus students can call their own. There may be small-group study spaces and lounges in academic buildings, and residence halls may offer programming and intimate settings for community growth, but students need a place on campus where they can gather, host organizational meetings, and enjoy entertainment and other recreational activities.

Are we witnessing a subtle, yet significant shift in the dynamics of campus engagement? In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, student union professionals have observed a striking trend: a...