On Thursday, Oct. 2, Upstate opened the doors to its newest addition: The Learning Commons (TLC). Costing approximately $21 million, this is the newest addition to the Upstate campus since 2009.
This building serves numerous purposes, including tutoring, career services, a commuter lounge, providing individual and group study spaces for students, and more.
The building was designed based on a tree motif, incorporating natural elements and taking advantage of natural light through large windows. The building also features a glass walkway connecting it to the library.
At the event, Dr. Bennie Harris said, “It’s a space where ideas branch out, where collaboration takes root and where the seeds of leadership are planted for generations to come.”
The grand opening featured many keynote speakers, including Dr. Harris, Senior Project Managers Jack Robinson and Shannon Calloway, and Anne Flynn, Chair of the Spartanburg County Commission for Higher Education.
Dr. Susannah Waldrop, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Services, said, “We’re here to turn students’ wishes into action, in a space designed for them to build their own plan, but with support along the way.”
The project was officially announced on April 5, 2024, and ultimately took a year and a half to complete construction.
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