The role of the "College Union" (or Student Center) on today's college/university campus

As a part of the Office of Student Development (Link below), the Scott Student Center is key in carrying out the mission of the unit as well as the College. The Association of College Unions International, an organization for Student Activities and Student Center professionals, has adopted "The Role of the College Union" which effectively describes the role of Student Centers (also known as "unions") on College campuses:

The union is the community center of the college, serving students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests. By whatever form or name, a college union is an organization offering a variety of programs, activities, services, and facilities, that, when taken together, represent a well-considered plan for the community life of the college.

The union is an integral part of the educational mission of the college.

• As the center of the college community life, the union compliments the academic experience through an extensive variety of cultural, educational, social, and recreational programs. These programs provide the opportunity to balance course work and free time as cooperative factors in education.
• The union is a student-centered organization that values participatory decision-making. Through volunteerism, its boards, committees, and student employment, the union offers firsthand experience in citizenship and educates students in leadership, social responsibility, and values.
• In all its processes, the union encourages self-directed activity, giving maximum opportunity for self-evaluation and for growth in individual social competency and group effectiveness.

The union’s goal is the development of persons as well as intellects.

Traditionally considered the "hearthstone" or "living room" of the campus, today’s union is the gathering place of the college. The union provides services and conveniences that members of the college community need in their daily lives and creates an environment for getting to know and understand others through formal and informal associations.

The union serves as a unifying force that honors each individual and values diversity. The union fosters a sense of community that cultivates enduring loyalty to the college.

Adopted by the Association’s general membership in 1996, this statement is based on The Role of the College Union statement, 1956.

Student Center Programs

Study Break Services Have Included:

• As a service to students, the Scott Student Center sponsors a "study break" program at the end of each semester, during finals.
• Free copies of all course related work
• Free refreshments in the main lounge
• Evening goodie bags - grab and go bag with full of snacks (cookies, candy, chips, granola bars, beverages, etc.)
• Late Night Dining Coupons - free access, with coupon, to late night dining
• Quiet places to study and useful tips