Umd South Campus Commons

Campus Life and Community

The UMD South Campus Commons serves as a vibrant hub for social and cultural engagement, fostering a strong sense of community among students.

The Commons hosts a diverse array of student organizations and activities that cater to a wide range of interests and backgrounds. These include cultural clubs, academic societies, social justice groups, and recreational activities.

Student Organizations

Prominent student organizations based at the Commons include:

• The Asian American Student Union (AASU) promotes Asian culture and heritage through events, workshops, and community service.
• The Black Student Union (BSU) advocates for the empowerment and success of Black students through academic, social, and cultural initiatives.
• The Student Government Association (SGA) represents the student body and works to enhance campus life through advocacy, policy changes, and event planning.

Community Building

The Commons provides numerous opportunities for students to connect with one another and build a sense of belonging.

• The Commons Plaza serves as a central gathering space for students to socialize, study, and participate in events.
• The Intercultural Dialogue Center offers workshops, trainings, and events that promote understanding and respect among students from diverse backgrounds.
• The Resident Student Association (RSA) organizes social and recreational activities that foster community among students living in the Commons residence halls.

Academic Resources: Umd South Campus Commons

The UMD South Campus Commons houses a comprehensive suite of academic facilities and services tailored to support the educational endeavors of students. These resources provide an enriching learning environment that fosters academic excellence and intellectual growth.

The Commons features state-of-the-art classrooms equipped with advanced audio-visual technology and flexible seating arrangements, enabling interactive learning and collaboration. Dedicated study spaces, including quiet study rooms and open collaboration areas, offer students conducive environments for focused study and group work.

Research Centers

The Commons is also home to several research centers that provide students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside renowned faculty members. These centers include the:

• Center for Advanced Transportation Technology
• Institute for Systems Research
• Maryland Robotics Center

These research centers offer students access to specialized laboratories, advanced research equipment, and mentorship from leading researchers, fostering their development as future leaders in their respective fields.

Dining and Retail

The UMD South Campus Commons is a vibrant hub for dining and retail, offering a wide range of options to cater to the diverse needs of students, faculty, and visitors.

From quick bites to fine dining, the Commons has something for everyone. The dining options include:

• Chick-fil-A
• Panda Express
• Taco Bell
• Starbucks
• Subway
• Terrapin Market
• UFood Grill

The Commons also offers a variety of retail stores and other amenities, including:

• CVS Pharmacy
• Maryland Bookstore
• Post Office
• University Card Services
• ATM machines

Design and Architecture

The UMD South Campus Commons is a striking architectural achievement that seamlessly blends form and function. Its design is characterized by bold geometric shapes, expansive glass facades, and sustainable materials, creating a dynamic and inviting space for students, faculty, and the broader community.

The Commons is organized around a central atrium that serves as the heart of the building. This soaring space is flooded with natural light, thanks to the extensive use of floor-to-ceiling windows. The atrium is surrounded by a series of balconies and walkways, which provide multiple vantage points from which to experience the space.

Use of Space

The Commons is designed to accommodate a wide range of activities, from formal lectures and conferences to informal study sessions and social gatherings. The building’s flexible spaces can be easily reconfigured to meet the needs of different events.

• The ground floor features a large dining hall, a coffee shop, and a convenience store, providing a variety of dining options for students and visitors.
• The upper floors house classrooms, meeting rooms, and study spaces, all of which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
• The rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the campus and the surrounding area, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and socializing.

Materials, Umd South Campus Commons

The Commons is constructed using a variety of sustainable materials, including recycled steel, low-VOC paints, and energy-efficient lighting. The building’s design also incorporates passive solar heating and cooling strategies, which reduce its environmental impact.

Overall Experience

The architectural design of the UMD South Campus Commons creates a welcoming and inspiring environment that fosters collaboration, learning, and community. The building’s open and airy spaces, combined with its sustainable features, make it a model for modern university architecture.

Sustainability

The UMD South Campus Commons embodies sustainability through its design and operations. It incorporates energy-efficient systems, waste reduction initiatives, and green building practices, minimizing environmental impact while fostering a sustainable campus community.

The Commons’ energy-efficient systems include LED lighting, motion sensors, and a geothermal heating and cooling system. These measures reduce energy consumption, lowering the building’s carbon footprint. Moreover, the building’s orientation and use of natural light optimize energy efficiency.

Waste Reduction

The Commons implements comprehensive waste reduction initiatives. Recycling bins are conveniently located throughout the building, encouraging proper waste disposal. The facility also utilizes a composting system to divert organic waste from landfills.

Green Building Practices

The Commons adheres to green building practices, including the use of sustainable materials and construction methods. The building’s exterior features a green roof, which insulates the building, reduces stormwater runoff, and provides a habitat for local wildlife.

These sustainability features contribute to a healthier environment for the campus community. Reduced energy consumption and waste diversion mitigate the building’s environmental impact, while green building practices promote occupant well-being and create a more sustainable campus.

Accessibility

The UMD South Campus Commons is designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. The building features ramps, elevators, and other accommodations to ensure that all students, faculty, and staff can fully participate in the activities and services offered at the Commons.

Ramps are located at all entrances to the building, and elevators provide access to all floors. Accessible restrooms are also available on each floor. In addition, the Commons has a dedicated accessible parking area located near the main entrance.

Importance of Accessibility

Accessibility is essential for creating an inclusive campus environment. When individuals with disabilities have equal access to facilities and services, they are able to participate fully in all aspects of campus life. This benefits not only individuals with disabilities but the entire campus community.