A review of Saint Francis University’s entire JFK building was performed to assess the needs/wishes of the University and students to see how the building could be renovated to better accommodate their current and future needs. The transformed 15,000+ sf first floor spaces includes “Frankie’s” Dining, a commercial kitchen, bookstore, Student Life offices, conference rooms, a D.I.Y. Craft Room, student lounges and an Esports gaming room.
Working with the University’s dining consultant, the new and improved “Frankie’s” was designed as a food court with multiple stations including, a Hot Grill, Deli, Pizza, Soup, a Mongolian Grill and Mexican Cinco Cantina, to meet the wide range of today’s students dietary needs. The new Esports arena has 18 pro-grade gaming stations, RGB color changing lighting, and top notch gear for every type of gamer. The space has allowed SFU to partner with American Esports and now offers intercollegiate competitive, intermural and recreational gaming options.
The transformation was completed in September 2019. As a result, the spacious, bright and modern new facilities accommodate student’s needs and interest, making the JFK Student Center the ‘living room’ of campus. Future phases of building improvements include a small vestibule and elevator addition, envelope modifications, a roof replacement, window upgrades, and improved building circulation.
