Students vote on HUB renovation funding

Students vote on Hoke Union Building renovation funding

Contact: Le Alexander | Assistant Director for Student Involvement at EOU
541-962-3714 | lalexand@eou.edu

February 27, 2012
LA GRANDE, Ore. (EOU) – Eastern Oregon University is seeking feedback from students on a referendum for funding of the Hoke Union Building (HUB) renovation project.

Students are asked to vote on whether or not a new mandatory special renovation fee should be assessed to every incidental fee-paying student at EOU to help fund the repair and renovation of the building.

The proposed fee would range between $25 and $30 per student, charged each regular academic year quarter for a period not to exceed 20 years.

Last year the university community, Associated Students of EOU and SERA Architects developed a conceptual renovation design for the HUB. The renovation approach was based on the building attributes, user vision and goals with the implementation of a study. The approach involved an interactive process with students, faculty and staff sharing their visions and an evaluation of the existing structure and development of an initial design.

On-site engagement workshops and design charrettes were offered with involvement from the EOU community throughout the process, including ASEOU officers, student groups, faculty, staff and students living on campus. Students provided input on a range of topics from existing weaknesses and strengths, to their wishes for the HUB.

“Improvements made to the building would help establish a sense of structure and organization, improve wayfinding and circulation, create inviting and comfortable spaces and expose the energy of the student union,” said David Lageson, director of Facilities & Planning at EOU.

Lageson went on to say that the renovations would provide a variety of meeting spaces, from small informal study areas to large conference rooms, as well as visually and physically connect activities by removing architectural barriers.

“Improvements to the building’s systems will also bring significant energy efficiencies and reduced operational expenses,” Lageson added.

Voting begins Wednesday and continues through March 6. Students may login to their Webster accounts at www.ous.edu/webster to cast their votes.

Reports have been posted on the Center for Student Involvement’s website for more information and review. Questions about the referendum and/or the HUB project should be directed to the Associated Students of EOU at 541-962-3387.