Nestled in the 10-story multipurpose building, the Grand Center houses almost 700 first-year students on the five upper floors. From private study nooks to communal lounges and kitchen areas, these spaces encourage both individual study and social interaction. The Grand Center is more than just a building; it is a testament to the University's dedication to holistic student development and will help transform students' lives and enhance their educational experience.
The Grand Center is designed to be a hub of collaboration, where perspectives and ideas converge to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment. It is a space where students will not only gain knowledge but also develop the skills, relationships and values that will guide them throughout their lives. In addition to housing, UTampa's newest building provides a unique Sky Park and green space to promote wellness and foster community, active learning classrooms, faculty and staff spaces, a new Starbucks, a parking garage, and dedicated space for the Southard Institute for Sales Excellence, Office of International Programs, the Veterans Lounge, and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. In addition, a bike storage area with a shower and changing room are located on the lower level, making it easier for more people to pedal to campus more often.
Gallery
Grand Center Residence Hall Gallery
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Grand Center Residence Hall
From private study nooks to communal lounges and kitchen areas, these spaces encourage both individual study and social interaction.
Spartan Living, UTampa's residential curriculum, serves as a foundation to guide the programs and events the University offers residential students. Spartan Living is based on three Spartan Ready® competencies:
- Life Skills - Be able to effectively meet the challenges and expectations of leading a fulfilling life.
- Interpersonal Abilities - Develop personal insight in order to engage with others and create meaningful relationships, which will lead to effective collaboration.
- Equity and Inclusion - Understand, respect and advocate for diverse perspectives and engagement with cross-cultural viewpoints individually, as a community and organizationally.
Floor Plan
The 10-story multipurpose building, houses 700 students in double and triple-occupant rooms.
Interior
The Grand Center residence hall is more than just a place to sleep—it's designed to be a hub of student life, fostering a sense of belonging, collaboration and personal growth. The modern amenities and comfortable living environments contribute to a well-rounded university experience, where students can thrive academically and socially.
Hub of Collaboration
Departments in the Grand Center
- International Programs
- Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Southard Institute for Sales Excellence
International Programs:
The new International Programs office will be instrumental in supporting our international students here at UTampa and fostering global learning opportunities. International Student and Scholar Services staff assist international students enrolled from 91 countries with documentation, regulations, cultural adjustments, academic issues and other concerns. Education Abroad Staff guide UT students to select the study abroad program best suited towards their academic and personal goals to promote cross-cultural understanding and broaden their global perspectives.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Center:
This space embodies our commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming campus environment. The DEI Center will serve as a hub for programs and initiatives that promote understanding, respect, and collaboration among all members of our university community. It will provide vital support and resources to ensure that every student feels valued and empowered.
Southard Institute for Sales Excellence:
The Southard Institute for Sales Excellence is designed to prepare the next generation of sales leaders. The new dedicated center provides students access to cutting-edge resources and programing that will prepare them for successful careers in sales. The Southard Institute for Sales Excellence fosters practical learning experiences, ensuring UTampa graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the professional world.
Featured
Spaces at the Grand Center
- Student Veterans Lounge
- Sky Park
- Starbucks
- Featured Artwork
This lounge offers UT’s veteran students a dedicated space for relaxation, camaraderie, and support. This lounge is designed to honor the service and sacrifices of our veterans, providing them with a place to connect, share experiences, and access resources tailored to their unique needs.
A unique green space designed to promote wellness and community engagement. This area will serve as a serene retreat for students to relax, study, and connect with nature, enhancing their overall well-being.
Starbucks
Starbucks provides comfortable and relaxed indoor and patio gathering spaces for UT community members. This venue offers a special collection of rare, small-lot coffees that are selected from farms all over the world. Also available are a variety of pastries and confections, and coffee-related accessories and equipment. Starbucks also offers a line of premium Teavana Teas.
Featured artwork throughout the building
Unmarid “Tony” Eitherong’s work tells a powerful story of resilience, creativity and community, and we are proud to showcase his art as a symbol of our commitment to these values. Among the artwork in the building is a large, 18-by-30-foot featured mural titled “The Sun Always Rises.” If you happen to be in the Grand Center during sunrise in the summer, you will see that the sun hits the large red area in the center of the canvas and reminds us that each day comes with new opportunities for us to shine.
