EFSC Unveils Final Plans for New Student Union

A new Student Union will begin rising this fall on Eastern Florida State College’s Melbourne campus, creating a vibrant center for student activity in the next major step in the campus’ ongoing expansion.

Final plans for the building were unveiled Monday during a meeting of the college’s Board of Trustees with officials showing drawings of the sleek glass structure and highlighting its features.

Construction is scheduled to start in October with completion set for October 2018.

“The Student Union will be the centerpiece of campus life, giving students a place to gather, study and participate in Eastern Florida’s rich collegiate experience,” said college President Dr. Jim Richey.

“It will be another important step in defining our strong commitment to our students and community as we continue growing academic programs in today’s top career fields.”

The building will serve as the front door to the Melbourne campus and include space for a variety of student services, government, clubs and activities.

It will also have a food court and large multipurpose room that can host student, college and community events.

The two-story, 32,000-square foot structure was designed with input from students and the college’s Student Life Directors, Student Recruitment Office and EFSC Foundation.

It will be located on the south side of the campus between the Titan Field House and Science Building, with landscaped outdoor plazas and other features tying all three structures together.

The Student Union will be the third new structure in the Melbourne campus’ growth as it continues expanding its role as a local and regional center for higher education and workforce development.

A Public Safety Institute opened its doors in 2015 and is home to a Law Enforcement Academy, Corrections Academy, EMT and 911 Operator training and studies in other criminal justice fields.

A Health Sciences Institute opened in January 2017, housing 12 health care programs where students can earn Bachelor Degrees, Associate Degrees and College Certificates.

Future plans call for construction of a Center for Innovative Technology Education that would educate students for the aerospace, aviation, digital technology and advanced manufacturing industries.

Planning is also underway for the college’s first Student Housing Complex that would also be located on the Melbourne campus. Construction could begin in the first half of 2018.

In other action Monday, the Board of Trustees named Alan Landman as chair and Ron Howse as vice chair. Both positions are one year terms.