ADUC: Student Perspective

Since its original construction in 1956, the Adron Doran University Center has been the center for university life at Morehead. Renovation is not unfamiliar to ADUC- as it has undergone major in change in 1969 and then again in 2005. The building’s namesake is of Adron Doran, president of Morehead State University from 1954 to 1977, who is responsible for bringing the institution to university status.

The sounds, smells, and sights a construction project brings to a university campus evoke a sense of excitement for the entire community. It sparks conversation among students and administrators. Excitement builds as both exterior and interior progress is made visible, and anticipation builds with each week that passes, and calendar dates slowly creeping to opening day. New students, unfamiliar with ADUC, wait to see what kinds of memories will be made here, while older students find excitement in returning to a place that is already home to many memories from their college experience.

The erecting of a new improved university center- one nearly doubling in its previous size- gives the Morehead community a sense of pride. For me, I see a state-of-the-art facility waiting to welcome (and welcome back) current students, but also the future generation of scholars. Not only does this pristine structure attract potential students, but it renews current students’ pride in their school.

I have toured the construction of ADUC twice now, and each time I have learned multiple new things. I only have very vague memories of ADUC, as I only set foot in the building twice; on a campus tour and during SOAR. Therefore, I was intrigued on my tour in discovering what former rooms were turning into, and the extended contents of what was there before. Seeing the placements of new and improved restaurants, office spaces, gathering rooms, and even a theatre brought many emotions, such as excitement, anticipation, and anxiousness for their arrival! All of this was great, but my favorite part occurred when the tour group made a trip up to the second floor. Step onto the overlook of the first floor to what is the makings of a sports pub seating area, currently covered in construction-produced dust, and on the wall you will notice exposed brick. With intention, the original structure of the Adron Doran University Center still shows. Evidence of the original renovation indicate efforts of honoring the past and its traditions, while recognizing that there are improvements to be made to better serve students. In this place, a new generation of students will honor traditions, create new ones, and become all that it is to be an Eagle. I found this aspect to embody what Morehead truly is: a place where humble beginnings are remembered, traditions are honored, and progress is always being made.