Colvard Student Union: A Hub of Activity at Mississippi State University
The Colvard Student Union stands as a central landmark on the Mississippi State University (MSU) campus, a vibrant hub for student life and a testament to the university's growth and evolution. From its origins in the 1960s to its modern renovation, the Union has adapted to meet the changing needs of the student body.
A Vision Realized: The Birth of the Union
Built in 1964 under the leadership of Dr. Dean W. Colvard, then President of the University, the Colvard Student Union was envisioned as the "Living Room of the University." Dr. Colvard, born on July 10, 1913, in Ashe County, North Carolina, was a prominent figure in MSU's history. A graduate of Berea College (1935), he furthered his education with a masterâs degree from the University of Missouri (1938) and a PhD from Purdue University (1950). Before becoming president of Mississippi State College (later University) in 1960, he served as Dean of the School of Agriculture at North Carolina State College in 1948. Notably, in 1965, Dr. Colvard oversaw the peaceful integration of MSU, admitting its first African-American student, Richard Holmes. His commitment to progress and student life is embodied in the Union's creation. Alongside the LSU Union and the J. Wayne Reitz Union at the University of Florida, the Colvard Student Union was a state-of-the-art union in the Southeast.
In its early days, the Union offered a range of recreational and essential services. It housed the MSU Bookstore, a bowling alley, a game room, an eight-chair barbershop, the Union Grill, and limited space for student organizations. These amenities made it the go-to place for students to relax, socialize, and take care of their daily needs.
Adapting to Growth: The Need for Renovation
As the student body and the number of student organizations steadily increased, the Colvard Student Union faced new demands. During the 1990s, the privatization and expansion of the MSU Bookstore led to the relocation of major student groups from the Union to other campus locations. While additional office space was created for the Campus Activities Board (CAB) at that time, the need for a comprehensive renovation became apparent.
In the late 1990s, an architect was commissioned to lay the groundwork for a significant renovation. This process involved extensive planning, studies of trends in other student unions, and valuable input from student surveys and focus groups. The goal was to create a space that would meet the evolving needs of MSU students and enhance their overall campus experience.
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A Modern Transformation: The 2006-2008 Renovation
The Mississippi Legislature provided the primary funding for the construction, supplemented by contributions from MSU students and alumni. The Union closed its doors on July 31, 2006, and construction commenced the following day. The renovated building reopened in early 2008, boasting a modern design and expanded facilities.
Today, the Colvard Student Union spans three floors and encompasses over 110,000 square feet. The renovations, designed by JH&H Architects, feature a sophisticated color scheme of maroon, black, white, and grey, reflecting MSU's colors.
A Tour of the Union's Floors
First Floor: The first floor is home to the Gladdis Hunt Commons, a bustling food court offering a variety of dining options, including Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, Pizza Hut, and Olilo. A Starbucks and the State Fountain Bakery provide coffee and sweet treats. The P.O.D. Market offers convenience items, and a two-chair hair salon caters to students' grooming needs. The Dawg House Lounge provides a quieter atmosphere for studying and relaxation. A portrait of Dean Colvard hangs on the right side of the floor as well.
Second Floor: The second floor houses the Union Art Gallery, meeting rooms, a ballroom, and the Holmes Cultural Diversity Center. The Union Art Gallery hosts exhibitions. The Holmes Cultural Diversity Center promotes inclusivity and understanding on campus.
Meeting and Event Spaces: The renovated Union features eight large multi-purpose meeting rooms and four conference-style rooms, providing ample space for student organizations, events, and academic activities. The Fowlkes Auditorium serves as a venue for larger presentations and performances.
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