Local officials, neighbors, and members of the University of Oregon Alumni Association participated in the June 16 Explore Oregon event, which focused on residence life and the UO’s newest residence hall.  Explore Oregon is sponsored by the Office of Government and Community Relations as a way for the university to connect with policy makers and opinion leaders. Over 50 participants gathered at the Museum of Natural and Cultural History for a program that included presentations from Vice President for Student Affairs Robin Holmes, University Housing Director Michael Griffel, and other members of the housing staff, students, and faculty. Participants heard about the university’s long-term housing plan, the operations of housing as a financially self-sufficient department, residence life activities, and the new Global Scholars Hall.

The group then toured the new Global Scholars Hall which is set to open in fall 2012 and will create a home for more than 450 students immersed in a challenging world of global study and culture. The new building, supported by Oregon Legislature-approved XI F (1) bonds, features a variety of living spaces and an inspiring design, incorporating areas for classes, dining, performance, and residential faculty.

Located on Moss Street in the east campus area, the new residence hall will provide a dynamic learning environment for students in the Clark Honors College, College of Arts and Sciences College Scholars, and language immersion programs. The building will include housing for a live-in scholar, a learning commons, a full-time librarian, five multi-purpose rooms/classroom, a multipurpose performance room, study rooms, presentation practice rooms, and dining facilities.