Williams Hall lobby upgrades show “JU is listening” to students

For JU junior Jennae Allen, many of the long walks she took over to Davis Student Commons from her dorm on South Campus aren’t necessary anymore because of what’s in the newly renovated Williams Hall lobby.

“It’s very welcoming, and you get a real sense of belonging and family here,” said the 21-year-old marketing major and Oak Hall R.A. “It shows that JU is listening to what the students want.”

(Check out the photo gallery over at the JU Facebook page.)

The lobby renovations, completed last fall, were showcased Thursday, Jan. 16, with an open house and refreshments. The space has been improved to include a flexible-seating lounge area, sliding glass doors, four 50-inch flat-screen TVs, pool and ping pong tables, new carpet and new furniture.

Luke Morrill, JU Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Residential Life, said the improvements aren’t just for Williams Hall residents, but all students across campus.

“This provides a great space with a variety of activities, and it was done to create a place for students to engage with each other,” he said. “All the students we’ve talked with have been excited about having a spot to socialize and study like this.”

Oak Hall R.A. Elizabeth Rossi, 21, a psychology and sociology junior, agreed.

“We have an area here now on this part of campus to get together, and a lot of people are saying it’s great for watching big games, or just to hang out.”