By Scott Schulick
Kilcawley Center Renovation Campaign Chairperson
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – I am honored to lead the effort to renovate Youngstown State University’s Kilcawley Center – a place that was an integral part of my student experience, and one that has continued to be an important part of my community involvement for the past three decades.
As we look back on the countless memories forged within the walls of Kilcawley Center, we remember its key role as an early building that created an inviting atmosphere to connect our students, which has come to define our university.
From its beginning in 1960, made possible by the philanthropy of the late industrialist William H. Kilcawley and his wife, Mattie, this center is a hub where students, faculty and staff forge friendships, exchange ideas, and create lasting university traditions.
Kilcawley Center has been extensively used by our campus and the community-at-large, though its age is showing. It no longer meets the needs of today’s student life and civic engagement. The last major expansion occurred in 1979, and while minor updates were made since, the center’s limitations are evident. In our quest to remain true to our mission of being student-centered, we now turn our focus to creating a renovated center.
We are embarking on a transformative journey to modernize our campus and enhance the student experience. This not only represents a physical space, but a hub where innovation, collaboration and community will flourish.
Our vision is to create a dynamic space that inspires belonging and creativity. Here’s how the renovated Kilcawley will bring our vision to life:
• Revitalized gathering spaces. Modern lounges and flexible collaboration areas will foster comfort, creativity, and community, honoring the spirit of student life.
• Expanded event facilities. Larger, adaptable spaces will accommodate various activities, from performances to community events, ensuring every student has a venue to showcase their talents.
• Seamless indoor-outdoor integration. Enhanced connections between indoor and outdoor spaces will create inviting areas that encourage relaxation and socialization
• Consolidated dining options. An updated dining area will serve as a communal space for meals, fostering connection and new traditions, much like the center in its current form.
• Chestnut Room upgrade. Expansions and improvements to the Chestnut Room will allow for larger gatherings, supporting the diverse needs of our student body
• Black-box theater. A new black-box theater will provide a casual, student-focused space for performances, celebrating the artistic spirit of our students.
• Improved connectivity with the Andrews Recreation & Wellness Center. Enhanced access will promote a holistic approach to student engagement and wellness, integrating academic, recreational and social experiences.
The renovation of Kilcawley Center is not just an investment in a physical space but a commitment to the community that has defined our university for decades.
Please join us to support Centered on the Future: The Campaign for Kilcawley Center, that will transform our campus for decades to come.