Posted: Friday, November 6, 2009 1:54 pm

MTSU Pres. Sidney McPhee addresses the audience at the ground breaking for a new student union. TMP/M. Willard

Middle Tennessee State University officials today signaled the start of its next newest building with a groundbreaking ceremony for the Student Union.

President Sidney A. McPhee, Student Affairs/Enrollment and Academic Services leader Dr. Debra K. Sells and 2009-10 Student Government Association President Brandon McNary shared brief remarks.

“We’re all so excited to mark the ceremonial groundbreaking of this new facility, but clearly students already have seen the actual construction already under way, and they already have been a part of the planning and programming processes,” said Sells, who is vice president for student affairs and vice provost for enrollment and academic services.

“The groundbreaking is a wonderful time, however, for us all to take a minute to recognize the far-sightedness and commitment to the future of those students who paved the way by sponsoring the SGA legislation which has made this facility possible,” Sells said.

The Student Union, which is being built at a cost of $77.13 million and being paid for by student fees, “is intended to primarily serve as gathering space for students,” Sells said.

“Students, some of you will be lucky enough to experience how great this building truly is before you graduate,” McNary said. “… This building is just as much part of your legacy as the new Student Health and Wellness and Recreation Center renovations were a part of those who came before us.”

McPhee, who brought a historical perspective to his comments, said it will be “an incredible facility for students and the campus, and it was not funded at taxpayers’ expense. It’s a facility that’s badly needed on campus.”

Designed by Street Dixon Rick Architecture and Thomas Miller and Partners, the building’s 197,180 square feet can accommodate a bookstore, copy center, game room and food court (first floor); a ballroom, parliamentary room, video theater, computer center, conference and meeting rooms and student lounges (second floor); and offices for Student Involvement and Leadership, the SGA and Student Unions and Programming (third floor).

The target date for completion is early 2012, MTSU officials said.

The Student Union will not replace Keathley University Center, which will continue to house Student Affairs-related offices, the MTSU Post Office and others.

Pinnacle Construction Partners of Nashville and national builder Messer Construction were awarded the contract to build the new facility.

Campus, state and Rutherford County officials, MTSU students and others attended the ceremony, which was held near the Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building.