By Michael Travis
News Editor
Next semester, every student at Pepperdine will be walking on water.
That is, at least, if everything goes according to plan.
The Tyler Campus Center is scheduled to undergo a major summer renovation, with part of the design including a floor that is painted like the ocean.
In fact, the entire area will follow the theme of waves and water, from the lighting to the backs of chairs.
The goal is add life to the Pepperdine campus, creating an area where students feel comfortable to do just about anything, from taking a break between classes to holding events and programs.
“The plans for the student center (TCC) are really unique,” said Bob White, associate dean of Campus Life. “There aren’t many schools that have an area like this one.”
A new big-screen TV will be installed where the current one is now, and the ceiling will be lowered to improve lighting. A sound and lighting console will be available for students to adjust the look and feel of the room. In addition, new, more comfortable furniture will help students relax.
Directly across from the television area, a permanent stage will be installed where students can hold small concerts or other programs.
Tables will be placed around the stage for studying or other purposes. Wireless laptop Inter-net access will also be available in this area.
“One of the goals for the project was to make things as high-tech as possible,” White said. “We want the area to have a modern, cutting-edge feel.”
A wooden dance floor will be placed in the space in front of the campus mailboxes, free for student groups to use for programs.
The hope is that students will use it for parties, concerts and themed weekend activities. Tables and furniture will be placed in this area when it is not in use for recreational purposes.
The other side of the student lounge will be home to a cyber café. About 24 computer terminals will be available to students.
Also, a juice bar will serve smoothies, coffee and other drinks. Students will be able to use their meal points as well as cash. It is planned to stay open later than other facilities on campus, giving students somewhere to go for a snack at night.
Lighting in the new student center was a primary consideration during the designing process.
The plan includes systems that will provide a brighter and more attractive atmosphere.
Upside-down umbrellas will be hung from the ceiling to provide indirect lighting sources, as well as adjustable lights that will be able to focus on the stage or dance floor.
These improvements are scheduled to be finished by Aug. 15.
A second phase of the project calls for the construction of an outside deck area, where students will be able to take advantage of the ocean view.
The idea for improving the TCC came from the students themselves. When President Dr. Andrew K. Benton began his administration, he opened a dialog with the Student Govern-ment Association and held several student focus groups that centered on ways to improve campus life at Pepperdine.
Improving the student center was one of the ideas that came out of these sessions.
Since that time, students have continued to play an active role in the planning process. SGA’s E-board put forward $5,000 to help get the project underway, and more student focus groups were held to determine specific details of the plan.
Students will also be consulted about what furniture is chosen for the center.
“We have an administration that is very responsive to the student body,” White said. “Presi-dent Benton is committed to improving the environment on campus to support student learning and life.”
Managing Director of Pepper-dine’s Center for the Arts, Marnie Mitze, Vice President of Finance and Administration Jeff Pippin, White and Benton were also part of the team that has worked to create what they believe will be a new, active part of the campus.
Suggestions and ideas for improvement of Pepperdine’s campus and student center are always welcome.
E-mail Bob White at bob. white@pepperdine.edu or call Campus Life at ext. 4207 with your comments.
March 14, 2002