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EKU x 100: A History of Eastern in 100 Objects, People, and Places
Item 27 of 43
Until recently, if you wanted to grab a bite to eat on campus, your best bet was the Powell Building. Dedicated in 1971 and named for former Eastern president J.C. Powell, this structure was built to serve as a student union and a place for recreation. It had an upstairs cafeteria and downstairs dining options (which have been relocated to the new Case Dining Hall next door). The Student Center also had ample opportunities for recreation. It was the largest and most expensive building on campus when it was constructed, and included at various points in its history a 12-lane bowling alley, pool tables, arcade games, game rooms, lounge areas, a barber shop, and even a dry cleaning facility. More recently, the bowling alley was replaced with Tech Commons. The Powell Building has changed along with the tastes and needs of students, and those changes continue today. Currently, the building is undergoing renovations to become a more modern student union for the campus.

The south entrance of the Powell Building. EKU Photograph Collection

The south entrance of the Powell Building. EKU Photograph Collection

The Powell Building, 1972. EKU Negative Collection

The Powell Building, 1972. EKU Negative Collection