Student Union dedication

Chancellor Leo Morton adresses the crowd

Students, faculty members, alumni and the UMKC community gathered last Friday at the north entrance of the Student Union to commemorate its dedication. The creation of the Student Union is a colossal accomplishment for UMKC, with countless hours put in its planning and creation.

“We are having the official grand opening dedication of the facility, so we will be joined not only by the Chancellor and Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs but we will also be joined by many of the members that made this happen,” Student Union Director Jody Jeffries said.

There was a range of guests and speakers invited to express their feelings on the Union dedication and how they feel it is a vital asset to the university. Not only have current students gained a gathering place, UMKC has added another tool for recruiting future students.

“The speakers today include Klassie Alcine, and past SGA President Sean McLain, a very instrumental SGA President during the time the referendum was passed and the vote was taken,” Jeffries said.

Students were the moving force behind getting the Student Union created.

“Today is really about a celebration and a thank you to UMKC students who made this project happen,” Jeffries said.

The Union dedication happening at this time of year is significant to past dates during the construction of the Student Union.

“It has significance of time of year,” Jeffries said. “Two years ago, we did the ground breaking for this facility. A year ago, we did the topping out ceremony where the final beam was laid and now we are doing the grand opening.”

The event had a successful turnout and was attended by students, faculty and community members. People gathered around to witness history happening: The dedication of the Student Union.

“We are hoping that everyone can come out and enjoy the ceremony and the festivities that take place after,” Jeffries said prior to the event.

khardaway@unews.com