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��ɫapp celebrated the newly renovated Tri-Towers residence hall complex on Oct. 15. The event was free and open to the public.

Kent State President Beverly Warren, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs Greg Jarvie and Kent Interhall Council President Brie Jutte spoke during the celebration. Following the remarks, participants toured the renovated residence halls and enjoyed light refreshments. 

“I imagine people are curious and want to see what the final product looks like,” said Jill Church, Kent State’s director of residence services. 

The internal and external renovation of Tri-Towers began this past summer and continued until the end of September.

Koonce and Wright halls now have bird’s-eye-view lounging areas for residents, called Sky Lounges. Sky Lounges were placed on the entire 10th floor of both residence halls in order to promote community building within the halls.

“We created a space for students to engage in group activities or just hang out,” Church said. “I think the renovations make it feel more like a place for students to call home.” 

Kent State students like Morgan LaRue, a sophomore psychology major living in Wright Hall, love visiting the Sky Lounge to be with their peers, while studying or taking a break.

“Our Sky Lounge is phenomenal,” LaRue said. “There is a complete sense of community up there. It’s so serene.”

In addition, Leebrick, Koonce and Wright halls now have new roofs, windows, carpet and paint, as well as new metal paneling on the exterior of the buildings.

“Buildings need upkeep throughout their lifespan,” Church said. “The work we did with these buildings will give them at least another 20 years of good use.” 

The Tri-Tower renovations are a part of the “Foundations of Excellence: Building the Future” initiative, which involves the construction of new buildings, facility upgrades and establishment of dynamic, new spaces. The goal of Foundations of Excellence is to create an outstanding academic experience for students, faculty, staff, alumni and the greater university community.

Learn information about Kent State’s Department of Residence Services