Montview Student Union receives design award

Liberty University’s Montview Student Union, which opened before the start of the Fall 2016 semester, was highlighted Thursday as one of five recipients of the 14th annual Association of College Unions International (ACUI) Facility Design Award of Excellence.

The award was created to encourage and recognize excellence in the design of student-centered facilities that support campus community building and student learning.

One of the centerpieces of an ongoing nearly $1 billion campus rebuilding project, the 168,000-square-foot Montview Student Union is connected to DeMoss Hall. With its main entrance facing the campus lawn, the massive front steps can be used for a variety of campus events. Designed by Charlottesville, Va.-based VMDO Architects, the facility serves as Liberty’s main student center, where academic activities mesh with social and recreational opportunities.

The building features a wide variety of dining options, from brick oven pizza to Mediterranean food, as well as Thai, Vietnamese, Indian, and other Asian cuisine. It also features Argo Tea, with tea from growers around the world, as well as a convenience store. The spectacular facility — a gathering place for students, faculty, and student life professionals — also houses the Veterans Center (operated by the Office of Military Affairs), the Center For Multicultural Enrichment (Center4ME), and ID & Campus Services offices. A magnificent Alumni Ballroom, with seating for up to 700, is located on the third floor and features a special collection of paintings that are focused on the life of Christ. Liberty’s Student Government Association is also located on the spacious third floor. The second floor offers a game room with pingpong and pool tables as well as a variety of video consoles and board games. On the basement level, students can unwind in an eight-lane bowling alley.