Augusta State University

 Augusta State University at 2500 Walton Way Augusta Ga. 30909 is a public institution of the University System of Georgia.  It offers more than 50 programs of study leading to associate, bachelor's, master's and specialist degrees, a paralegal certificate and a cooperative doctoral degree; PH: 706-737-1400 

After a day of "grueling" classes, Augusta State University students can walk in, throw up their arms and yell, "Sanctuary!"

That's how ASU Student Government Association President Isaac McAdams described the university's new Jaguar Student Activity Center.

Adjoined to Reese Library and located in the center of campus, the $11.1 million building has a cafeteria, lounges, flat-screen TVs, a workout facility and even a relaxation room.

Augusta State doesn't have a football team like the University of Georgia, but the atmosphere of the activities center provides a way to unify student and keep them on campus, senior Chris Fontimayor said.

"When I was in high school, I would think of Augusta State and would think this is a small school," he said.  "Now look at it."

It's a long way from the College Activities Center, the predecessor of the current facility, said John Groves.  The former director of student activities was there for the opening of that facility and was one of the people instrumental in opening the new student center.

"Oh, I think (the Jaguar center) probably surpassed my expectations," Groves said.  "Putting it where it was put makes it the linchpin of the campus."

The facility pulls the campus together and offers amenities students want, he said.

President William A. Bloodworth, Jr. said the building of the activity center is no "simple story," but one that dates to the 1995-1996 school year.

Eleven years later, the facility is a reality, funded through a public-private partnership and a $45 fee paid by all students.

Buildings have a "powerful indluence" on people, Bloodworth said.  The facility adds value to student's experiences because they feel more valued.

The activities center is the latest addition to the changing landscape of Augusta State's campus.  In recent years, the university has also replaced several World War II-era classroom buildings with modern facilities, amoung other capital improvement projects.