Work on Student Veterans Center, River House rapidly progressing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Work is progressing rapidly on JU’s new Student Veterans Center and the River House, with anticipation building as the new venues for gathering, studying and relaxing take shape.

The veterans center should be largely complete by mid-November, providing more than 1,000 square feet of space centrally located in the Founders Building for Jacksonville University’s nearly 400 student veterans. Part of the space will be a computer lab and study area, and part will provide a gathering spot and lounge in which to relax, complete with flat-screen TV, refrigerator, microwave and comfortable chairs.

“Student veterans are our second-largest affinity group on campus behind athletes, and this is designed to better serve that population and give them a place to call home,” said JU Chief Administrative Officer Derek Hall. “We are focused on helping give them the best chance to be the most successful students they can be.”

Former JU Trustee and area Taco Bell franchise Chief Operating Officer Thaddeus Foster plays a prominent role in the Armed Forces Families Foundation, which is funding the facility.

Meanwhile, the River House, which formerly housed University presidents and later administrative offices, is being completely redone in a $1 million project to re-imagine the venue that fronts the Lonnie Wurn Pool and Dolphin Beach Volleyball Courts overlooking the St. Johns River. The ‘50s-era ranch structure is being gutted and turned into a 5,000-square-foot mecca with interactive flat-screen TVs, indoor craft brew room with food service, wireless technology, conference and meeting rooms, conversation pits, a screen porch, outdoor multi-tiered decks totaling more than 2,800 square feet, a fire pit, entertainment stages and more. A target date of early spring is set for completion. (Click here for more on the River House.)

Alumni, faculty, students, parents, staff and friends are invited to purchase a personalized and commemorative brick paver for themselves, a loved one, a favorite professor, their graduating class, sorority, fraternity, or someone who has been a significant influence on their life. The commemorative paver will be engraved with the purchaser’s selected wording and will become a lasting tribute, paving the way for generations of JU Dolphins to come.

Upon the River House remodel completion, the pavers will be placed in the entrance way. Click here to learn more about the River House Paver Program, or contact Robyn Reeves at (904) 256-7014, rreeves3@ju.edu. To discuss larger River House donations and naming opportunities, call Michael Howland at (904) 256-7393 or email mhowland@ju.edu.