Rebecca Needleman ‘23
Co-Editor in Chief + Staff Writer
Grand Opening of the New Student Union Building
On Tuesday, January 17th – the first day of classes for the Spring 2023 Semester – Merrimack College finally opened its brand new Student Union Building. The Grand Opening began at four o’clock in the afternoon and ended around seven o’clock at night, though, the college community was welcome to stay as long as they wished until close at eleven o’clock PM.
The event experience began with walking up to the Student Union doors where the Merrimack College Rock Band was playing with the Beacon’s very own, Alex Conte, as the lead singer. A bubble machine was going welcoming individuals into the outdoor spaces, proceeding to the amazingly crafted ice sculptures that included a bowling pin and ball, gaming controller and the Merrimack shield. Additionally, on the new building was a gold and blue balloon arch above the doorway to gather attention.
Father Raymond Dlugos, O.S.A, blessed the Student Union building once everyone entered. The blessing took place in the bowling alley of which President Hopey, Student Government Association President Nick Barber and Brandon Clinton, the Associate Manager of Campus services, threw the first bowl. Then, it was time for celebrating and trying out all the new space has to offer.
In the lobby was a step and repeat photo op with many bowling props including a ball, pins and shoes. The Office of Student Involvement was there passing out bowling pin stress toys with a “free game of bowling” coupon for the first week of the building’s opening. And of course, bowling was occurring, as well as students playing pool, testing out the new e-game center, golf simulators and eating appetizers that were circling the space throughout the event. Monica’s Kitchen, the new eatery on campus, was also a hit! Students had the line out the door… the chicken pesto sandwich is said to be a warrior fan favorite.
The Grand Opening of the Student Union Building was definitely a success! Not only was it a great way to kick off the first day of the Spring Semester and a new year, but it really welcomed the entire Merrimack College community into the new space and gave us all a new place to hang out, have fun and enjoy each other’s company. A huge thank you and shout out to the Office of Student Involvement staff and Event Coordinators, Sodexo, Campus Ministry, and Senior Administration for all of their planning, hard work and execution of the event.
