LAWRENCE — The new Jayhawk Welcome Center, a dynamic and inviting space that represents a new era in student recruitment for the University of Kansas, is now open for campus tours by prospective students and their families — as well as events and programs for current students, returning alumni and the KU and Lawrence communities.
The building is attached to the dramatically renovated Adams Alumni Center, home of the KU Alumni Association, at 1266 Oread Ave., the entrance to historic Jayhawk Boulevard on KU’s Lawrence campus.
“The Jayhawk Welcome Center helps KU create a campus visit that no other university can match,” said Chancellor Douglas A. Girod. “Through our state-of-the-art video displays, prospective students can experience many aspects of KU life that they would not see on an ordinary campus tour. They also can see stories highlighting the research and innovations of our faculty and students, along with the achievements and service of Jayhawks around the world. The entire experience powerfully conveys what it means to be a Jayhawk.”
Both structures feature breathtaking views of Mount Oread and exhibits, including a two-story video board and a 360-degree virtual experience that transports visitors to classrooms, campus events, laboratories, Allen Fieldhouse and David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium.
The complex also includes varied spaces for KU and community events and meetings, along with dedicated space for current student leaders on the Student Alumni Endowment Board and retired KU faculty and staff who are members of the Endacott Society.
“With the collaboration of university leaders, KU Endowment, alumni donors and Jayhawk-led corporations, we set out to create a home that would unite Jayhawks past, present and future and help the university achieve its enrollment goals in a highly competitive arena,” said Heath Peterson, Alumni Association president. “We’re truly grateful for all those who shared our vision and provided the leadership and resources to make this project a reality after years of planning.”
The KU Admissions team began hosting tours for prospective students and families on Feb. 13, and early reviews have been positive, according to Lisa Pinamonti Kress, assistant vice provost and director of undergraduate admissions. “The comments from students and families confirm that the Jayhawk Welcome Center provides an amazing first impression,” she said. “It has been fun to watch the students react as they see their names on the amazing welcome board and walk through the digital exhibits before they tour our beautiful campus. We are confident that the welcome center will enhance our recruitment of future Jayhawks.”
For more information on the Jayhawk Welcome Center, including space reservations, visit kualumni.org/jayhawk-welcome-center.
