YORK, Pa. — With a rousing “We Are,” and music from York’s newest students club, the “Baby Blue Band,” more than 200 Penn State York students, faculty, staff and invited guests listened to speakers and prepared for the much-awaited opening of the Joe and Rosie Ruhl Student Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 12.
Construction on the renovation and addition began last fall, and for many students at York, Wednesday marked the first time they had ever been in the building.
A gallery of photos from the grand opening can be viewed online on the Penn State York Facebook page.
Those in attendance heard from David W. Chown, chancellor of Penn State York; Holly Gumke, director of business services; Jennifer Nesbitt, associate professor of English, Patrick Tanner, director of student engagement; and Michelle Lin, Student Government Association president.
“I am glad that the Ruhl building is finally a reality with a 38 percent size increase, brand new fitness center, renovated gym, Student Government Association and club office space, and the re-opening of our kitchen and food service area,” said Michelle Lin, Student Government Association president, who represented students at the event.
“Penn State York has always been committed to excellence,” Lin continued “We have always valued passion, diversity, and leadership. This new space holds so much potential for our students, clubs and organizations, faculty, and staff members.”
Lin also went on to talk about the new space and its focus on students, highlighting the opportunities that will be available for students to meet together, collaborate on creating engaging events, and enjoy time together over a meal in the new food service area, which includes Rosie’s and Cup ‘O Joe.