HUB-Robeson Center opens newly renovated student space on the 3rd floor

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Recently, the University celebrated the opening of the newly renovated third floor in the HUB-Robeson Center. The refreshed, 26,000-square-foot space was designed to foster community, increase meaningful student engagement and create new opportunities for student success. 

The renovation, first announced in fall 2024, was shaped and cultivated through direct student feedback. Perkins & Will, the lead design firm, collaborated closely with students throughout the process to reimagine the third floor, ensuring it helps to meet the needs of various student organizations, student caucus groups and student government organizations. The result is a flexible, welcoming environment featuring community gathering areas, conference rooms, and dedicated office and storage space for student organizations, according to Brian Patchcoski, associate vice president of Student Access, Community, and Success.

“This project reflects Penn State’s commitment, and the commitment of the Student Initiated Fee Board, to creating physical spaces where students can cultivate a sense of belonging, community, and engagement,” Patchcoski said.

The renovated space reflects Penn State’s commitment to strengthening student voice and leadership, according to Mary Edgington, senior director of the HUB-Robeson Center. With dedicated offices for student governments, the renovation creates a visible and accessible home for student advocacy, decision-making, and representation. By placing governance at the heart of the floor, the space underscores the vital role students play in shaping their Penn State experience and ensures their perspectives remain central to campus life. 

“The renovated HUB-Robeson Center is more than just a physical space — it’s an investment in student voice, leadership, and community,” Edgington said.

In addition to student government, the renovation introduces enhanced features that support a wide range of organizations and initiatives. Expanded storage for organizational materials will make it easier for student groups to maintain continuity and build upon their work, while flexible, reservable areas provide room for both short- and long-term projects.  

These spaces not only aim to help support collaboration but also help nurture the growth of student communities and engagement over time. With the addition of a meditation room designed to promote well-being, the project has created more than just a renewed space — it is a purposefully designed environment to help empower students to lead, create and thrive together. 

Penn State Student Affairs supports holistic student success through advocacy, education, engagement and care. With more than 30 programs and units, Student Affairs helps students thrive in and out of the classroom, discover community and belonging, build leadership skills and create lasting memories. All programs and events are open to all students, regardless of sex, gender, sexual orientation, race or other protected class. Student Affairs is committed to building a community of belonging for all. Learn more about Student Affairs programs at studentaffairs.psu.edu.