Expansion Of Miami University's Armstrong Student Center Brings Mixed Reviews

BY ISABELLE HANSON and KRISTIN STRATMAN
Miami University journalism students

A $24 million addition to Miami University’s Armstrong Student Center brings excitement. But, increased demand for space and the addition of the Women’s and LGBTQ Center leaves student organizations crowded.

Cameron Kadis, a Miami junior and member of Alpha Phi Omega service organization, struggles to find room in his new office. Having one of their own last year, the club now shares an office fit for one group with two other student orgs.

“It is certainly more cramped now than the space that we were in last semester, and we do
need to do a lot of organizing,” Kadis said.

Katie Wilson, director of Armstrong Student Center, says this is the first year student org offices are triples. In past years, offices were doubles and singles.

But, the combining of spaces has not been entirely negative. The Women’s Center students and staff feel positive about their new location in Armstrong, the main student traffic hub on campus. It’s the center’s fifth move in the last 15 years, and they hope it’s their last.

Jordan Hallbauer, Miami senior and an intern of two years at the Women’s Center, says her home away from home is quickly becoming Armstrong.

“We have been making more efforts to partner with organizations in the space or like on campus which is a little easier 'cause we aren’t as far away,” said Hallbauer.

The Women’s Center has plans to open its doors past current daytime hours. This will allow student orgs space to work during their busiest meeting times.

Rhonda Jackson, administrative assistant at the Women’s Center for 15 years, hopes it’s a win-win for both parties.

“So it offers students that are in the student org space to float in here in the evening and see our space, engage with our staff, and get to know a little more about the work that we do,” she said.

Serving approximately 75 students per week, the Women’s Center anticipates its new location and partnership with student orgs will increase awareness for the center.

“Coming in always feels like relaxing and cathartic and like outside of class and everything like that. And I think a lot of people feel the same and that is why they keep coming and like hanging out here,” Jackson said.

Next time you’re in Armstrong, take a visit to the Women’s and LGBTQ Center located on
the third floor.

Top photo: Armstrong opened its east wing this fall with more organizations in residence. -- Photo contributed by Miami University