Revitalizing Campus Life: The Cohen Student Union Renovations at FGCU
The Cohen Student Union at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) has undergone significant renovations, delivering a revitalized, student-centered space designed to foster connection, collaboration, and campus engagement. These Phase II renovations, completed by Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K), have transformed the heart of campus life, providing students with enhanced facilities and a modern environment. Originally constructed by O-A-K more than 20 years ago, the Cohen Student Union holds long-standing significance for the firm. FGCU’s decision to partner once again with O-A-K for this next phase reflects the strength of that relationship and confidence in the firm’s ability to deliver complex renovations in an active campus environment.
Enhancing Gathering and Meeting Spaces
Phase II renovations focused on enhancing gathering and meeting spaces throughout the facility. The project, designed by RG Architects, aimed to create a more functional and aesthetically pleasing environment for students. A major component of the project included enclosing the former outdoor atrium located between Einstein Bros. Bagels and the food court, transforming it into a bright, modern interior entry space. This enclosure created a welcoming and usable space year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
Visitors are now welcomed by a new seating area and a relocated information booth that improves functionality and flow. The renovated interior features high ceilings, expansive windows, circular pendant lighting, and a long counter with seating. These design elements contribute to a more open and inviting atmosphere, encouraging students to gather and interact.
Improved Circulation and Collaboration
A newly constructed staircase connects the first and second floors, improving circulation and visibility within the student union. This staircase not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also makes it easier for students to navigate between floors. The second floor now includes three conference-style rooms that provide collaborative meeting space for students and student organizations, along with a new seating area overlooking the first floor. These rooms are equipped to support meetings, group projects, and other collaborative activities, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
Project Completion and Collaboration
Construction was completed in 11 months, ahead of the original 12-month schedule, despite the need to coordinate work around weekly campus events. O-A-K credits this success to close collaboration with FGCU’s Facilities and Events teams, whose partnership helped maintain steady progress throughout the project. This collaborative approach ensured that the renovations were completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to campus life.
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Jim Hopper, Florida Division President of Owen-Ames-Kimball, stated, “We are proud to return to the Cohen Student Union and deliver updates that support FGCU’s students and campus life. Completing this renovation ahead of schedule speaks to the strength of our partnership with FGCU and the dedication of our project team-many of whom have deep personal ties to the university.”
Project Team and Workforce Development
O-A-K extends special recognition to its project team, including Brian Filipek, Carlos Rapalo-both FGCU graduates-Ferrell Clark, Marco Garcia, and several FGCU interns who contributed meaningfully throughout the project. The involvement of FGCU graduates and interns highlights O-A-K’s commitment to supporting the local community and providing opportunities for students to gain valuable experience.
In keeping with O-A-K’s commitment to workforce development and education, the firm hosted multiple FGCU Construction Management classes on-site during construction, providing students with firsthand exposure to an active renovation project and real-world learning experience. This initiative allowed students to observe construction processes, interact with industry professionals, and apply their classroom knowledge to a real-world setting.
Owen-Ames-Kimball: A Legacy of Construction Excellence
Owen-Ames-Kimball (O-A-K) has completed Phase II renovations of the Cohen Student Union at Florida Gulf Coast University. O-A-K’s Florida operation is an affiliate of its parent company in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with offices in Collier and Lee counties. Its Lee County office is located at 11941 Fairway Lakes Drive in Fort Myers. Originally constructed by O-A-K more than 20 years ago, the Cohen Student Union holds long-standing significance for the firm. FGCU’s decision to partner once again with O-A-K for this next phase reflects the strength of that relationship and confidence in the firm’s ability to deliver complex renovations in an active campus environment.
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