The Chamberlain Student Center expansion was scheduled for completion on Oct. 15, but due to unexpected events, the opening and completion of the expansion is intended to be completed by the end of November. Since May 2022, the Chamberlain Student Center has been undergoing an expansion for current and future Rowan students.

Andrew Oakley is the Assistant Vice President for Capital Facilities Construction.

“We expect permission to occupy the space around by the end of November, but a ribbon cutting or grand opening ceremony will be decided on by the President’s Office,” said Oakley.

The main reason why the student center completion has been halted is because of issues regarding the specialty railings for the first-floor area.

“The fabrication and installation of specialty railings for the 1st-floor area have taken longer than expected and are required for the inspector to approve occupancy of the building,” said Oakley. “They are currently being installed and should be complete by the end of this week which will allow us to continue with final inspections by the Building Inspector.”

Rowan University still has the same mission with the student center expansion, with it being a place for students to have space for themselves.

Dr. Joe Lizza is the Director of the Chamberlain Student Center and Campus Activities.

“The center will offer a variety of spaces for studying, socializing, and collaborating, including quiet study zones, lounges, and group meeting rooms,” said Lizza. “Students, faculty, and staff can look forward to a diverse calendar of events, workshops, and activities that cater to a range of interests, from cultural celebrations to partnerships with academic affairs.”

The expansion of the student center affects how students walk from the building around the area of the construction.

Angeline Tran, a freshman student at the university, says that the construction makes walking from class to class difficult.

“They do get in the way of walking, especially when classes end and there’s a lot of people walking two directions, so that’s the main difficulty,” said Tran.

Students who are experiencing their final semester won’t be able to see the new updates and get to experience the renovation.

Caleb Slusarski is a senior at Rowan University who is going to be graduating this school year and said he wished he had more time to utilize the new facilities.

“I’m only here for a whole nother semester, so I’m not gonna get to enjoy it like I thought I would,” said Slusarski.

While the students are expressing their frustrations with the student center construction not being completed, the message from the student center team is that the wait will be worth it.

“To all the students waiting for the student center construction to wrap up, we understand how eagerly you’re anticipating the completion,” said Lizza. “This new space will be a hub for connection, collaboration, and creativity. Your patience is appreciated, and we’re excited for you to experience all the amazing resources and opportunities it will bring. Hang in there—great things are on the horizon.”

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