What We Know: Ozarks Technical Community College has opened its new $48 million student union in Springfield.
The Michael L. Parson Student Union, known as “The U,” gives students a central place to eat, study and spend time together on campus.
Chancellor Hal Higdon says students who are more involved in campus life are also more likely to stay in school and graduate.
What It Means: The new facility includes a food court, fitness center, an updated Eagle Store and recreation areas.
Former Missouri Governor Mike Parson helped secure funding for the project. He says Ozarks Tech plays an important role in preparing students for the workforce and giving them options to continue their education.
What’s Next: And the college isn’t finished growing. Higdon says Ozarks Tech is now looking for more space for its building trades programs, including automotive, construction, plumbing and electrical.
The new semester at Ozarks Tech begins August 24.
(Logo courtesy of Ozarks Technical Community College)