The Highsmith Student Union serves as the energetic campus hub where students gather, study, and connect at American University. Designed to support both academic collaboration and daily student life, this building shapes the rhythm of campus activity.
Below is a structured overview of key operational details and services offered at the Highsmith Student Union.
| Service Area | Key Offerings | Hours (Weekdays) | Primary Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dining & Retail | Multiple cafes, grab-and-go, merch, and event merchandise | 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Union Desk |
| Event Programming | Speaker series, cultural events, workshops, performances | Varies by event | Programming Office |
| Meeting & Study Spaces | reservable rooms, collaboration zones, quiet lounges | 24/7 access for cardholders | Facilities Team |
| Student Org Support | Funding, advising, event logistics, office space | By appointment | Student Engagement |
History and Campus Impact of the Highsmith Student Union
The Highsmith Student Union reflects decades of evolving student needs and architectural adaptation at American University. Its development traces how student centers respond to shifting academic, social, and technological expectations on campus.
Designed to be a multipurpose venue, the building supports formal gatherings, informal interaction, and cultural expression. Its layout and programming emphasize inclusion, leadership development, and community building across diverse student groups.
Programming and Events at the Highsmith Student Union
The Highsmith Student Union curates a robust calendar of events that blend leadership training, arts, activism, and wellness. These programs connect classroom learning with real-world engagement and peer networking.
Speakers, workshops, and cultural showcases are scheduled throughout the semester to align with academic themes and student interests. Event formats range from intimate dialogues to large performances, allowing different participation styles.
Student Organization Resources and Spaces
Highsmith Student Union provides physical and logistical support for student organizations, including meeting rooms, event funding guidance, and technical assistance. Centralized services help groups plan efficiently and maintain consistent outreach.
Student leaders can access shared tables for collaboration, bulletin boards for promotion, and booking systems for larger functions. This infrastructure strengthens campus life by making organizing more accessible and transparent.
Getting the Most from Highsmith Student Union
- Review the semester calendar early to align group meetings with major events and speaker sessions.
- Book meeting rooms and equipment well in advance to secure preferred times and technology setup.
- Join student organization onboarding sessions to learn funding processes, space policies, and collaboration tools.
- Check the union’s app or portal for real-time updates on room availability, event changes, and dining specials.
- Engage with staff at the front desk to discover workshops, volunteer opportunities, and campus partnerships.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I reserve a meeting room at the Highsmith Student Union?
Submit a reservation request through the university’s facilities portal, specifying dates, times, expected attendance, and equipment needs, then confirm approval before arrivals.
Are there catering options available on-site at Highsmith Student Union?
Yes, the on-site cafes support light catering for meetings and events; for larger catered events, coordinate with campus dining services to align menus and logistics.
Can student organizations apply for funding to host events at Highsmith Student Union?
Yes, student organizations can apply through the union’s programming office for event funding, which may cover supplies, honoraria, and marketing costs based on guidelines.
What accessibility features are available in the Highsmith Student Union building?
The building includes ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, adjustable tables, and sensory-friendly spaces, with staff trained to support diverse accessibility needs.