Michigan State University will hold an open house celebration for Owen Hall from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 27 to mark the completion of a whirlwind summer renovation.
The event will include hors d’oeuvres prepared by the chefs of Riverwalk Market, building tours and giveaways. A ribbon-cutting will be held at 3 p.m. with remarks by Vennie Gore, assistant vice president for the Division of Residential and Hospitality Services; Sharri Margraves, director for Campus Living Services; and Guy Procopio, director for Culinary Services. Event parking is available in the Shaw Ramp.
Construction for the Owen project began in May 2009. Enhanced public spaces include the lobby and service center, the lower-level group study area, community kitchen, and game room and TV room. A new card reader access system was installed in the hall, student rooms have been painted, and furniture has been modified to allow for more flexibility.
The Owen Café also transformed into Riverwalk Market, which officially opened Aug. 28. Riverwalk Market features a variety of takeout options and stations for serving authentic cooked-to-order international cuisine, pizza, sandwiches, burgers and fries. Joining manager Mike Gardner at Riverwalk Market is chef Jonathan Hughes, who creates new recipes and authentic international dishes that reflect the many world regions Owen Hall students call home.
“These renovations make for a very attractive and flexible housing option that meets the unique needs of the graduate and international student community,” said Joyce Samuel, Owen Hall complex director for the Department of Residence Life. “With new group and individual study areas, the enhanced community kitchen and stellar dining options, we’re confident that our residents have everything they need at Owen.”
Construction progress at Owen was chronicled through photos and written descriptions on the Division’s construction log Web site, http://hfs.msu.edu/construction/owen.html.
Campus Living Services and Culinary Services are departments of the Division of Residential and Hospitality Services.
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