Student Activities Center opens for business

The 100,000-square-foot, $15.7 million complex evokes awe. When students and visitors first stepped into the building a few weeks ago, it was apparent that everyone was impressed by the scope of the building—from the slick basketball courts to the formidable exercise equipment room.

Mary Wisniewski, acting executive director of campus life, said she is enjoying the comments being made about the Student Activities Center. "Everyone looks around and says, 'Wow.' It has been fun to watch the reaction. It is like a new toy."

Wisniewski said the initial numbers are in, and about 200 people per day are using the weight room. "It is a very popular place at lunch time and from 4:30 to 8 p.m. The track, the three racquetball courts and the aerobics room are all being utilized. There are students in the study lounge and the snack bar. I now see some regular players on the basketball courts between classes and at the end of the day."

She said her job for the next few months will be listening to the students and determining what is important to them as the center develops a direction.

Wisniewski, who has been the women's basketball coach for nine years, accepted the position of acting executive director for campus life in early January. She earned her bachelor's degree in education at Iowa State and came to teach in South Bend. Wisniewski received her master's degree in education from IU South Bend while she was teaching in the South Bend schools.

"I was here when there was a parking lot in the middle of campus," she said, laughing. "I've walked recruits around on campus and explained that this was once the site of a Coke bottling plant. This center is a giant step forward for the campus."

Wisniewski said the activity around the center has been great with involvement in the exercise classes, basketball practices, walkers and runners. "It has been strange to see so much activity during the women's basketball practices in the evening, but it is wonderful to see the participation."

Elizabeth Moulis is a member of the women's basketball team and a student worker in the building. She said the building has changed the mood of the campus. "Now, there is so much to do after classes. Now, the students know there are two basketball teams, and we have someplace to play."

Students enjoying the new facility

IUSB Chancellor Kenneth Perrin in the new Student Activities Center