“Academics and a strong physical presence speak volumes about the character of a university,” said Christopher Newport University’s Executive Vice President William L. Brauer. “At CNU, we see a powerful connection between the two. For example, we think in terms of the Library representing the mind, The Freeman Sports and Convocation Center representing the body, and the Ferguson Center for the Arts representing the soul. If that is true, then the new Student Union surely represents the heart because it says a lot about who we are as a campus community and who we serve. Quite appropriately, the building sits literally at the ‘heart’ of campus.”

Designed by DMJM Architects and Engineers in Arlington, the David Student Union, which was officially opened and dedicated by President Paul Trible on Sept. 9, features stately Neo-Georgian-style architecture with white columns, keystones above the windows, arched walkways, a colonnade, and a three-story atrium that creates a “street” that bisects the structure, creating the impression of two buildings. The “street” is a main gathering place as well as an indoor thoroughfare continuing pedestrian access from York River Residence Hall to the rest of the campus. Other elements include a grand staircase, four pedestrian bridges that cross the “street” at the two upper levels, and an outdoor dining patio. Unique sun-diffusing skylights crown the third-floor landing, spotlighting the grand staircase.

The David Student Union’s efficiency, style, beauty and attention to detail perfectly complement its functionality. All three floors have student “hubs” for studying, reading, researching or computing with wireless access, and the layout facilitates smooth traffic flow and easy navigation. At every turn something draws the eye: doors recessed into hallway walls in a half-diamond pattern, green views of the campus’ Great Lawn from tall windows, the interplay of tile and glossy wood grains.

Architectural appeal and a bold mix of textures and colors, such as burnished cherry wood and hues of gold and blue, define the building’s interior and reflect the unique vision of President Trible and his wife, Rosemary, who were actively involved in the design of the building and in approving interior finish selections. “As a team, they have an incomparable sense of design, quality and beauty, as well as an appreciation for the significance of these spaces and their impact on people. The Tribles were able to create special places that will nurture and promote a sense of community,” Mr. Brauer said.

The David Student Union continues the University’s tradition of investing in students through providing updated, comfortable amenities. And though the campus has expanded, it has remained true to its goal: to provide small classes that are the hallmark of a private liberal arts education with facilities that few institutions can rival.

 “The building reflects what CNU has become, which is a University serving a vibrant, traditional and largely residential student body,” said Mr. Brauer.

What’s in the new Student Union?

• Formal and informal dining options
• Two-story CNU Bookstore
• Full-service post office
• Digital color copy center
• Grand ballroom
• Meeting and conference rooms
• Student organization offices and the student newspaper
• Offices for career development, multicultural affairs, international studies and academic advising
• Game and TV rooms
• Study areas
• Computer terminals and wireless Internet connection

Tasty choices

Food vendors and residential dining occupy the first floor and represent groundbreaking offerings for CNU students. The dining area serves the campus’ 3,000 resident students and is available to day students, faculty and staff as well. Food vendors include Chick-fil-A, Stone Willy’s Pizza, a dessert shop called “Sweet Street,” and “Discovery Bistro,” a gourmet sandwich shop. The residential dining experience offers a continuous breakfast bar, Mongolian barbecue, a brick oven, a dessert venue, and many other food and beverage stations. Layout is spacious, choices are diverse and the hours have been expanded to cater to students’ schedules.

This isn’t your mom and dad’s college cafeteria. Students can enjoy their meals in cozy alcoves or open areas, on the outdoor patio, or in an upscale dining room accented with white table linens and crackling fireplaces reserved for special occasions. A contemporary, comfortable ambience and a wide selection of fresh, healthy foods are highlights of the Student Union dining area — an institutional feel is not.

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