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7 Shocking Facts About The Allen Chapman Student Union: The University Of Tulsa's 78,000 Sq. Ft. Powerhouse

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The Allen Chapman Student Union stands as the dynamic, two-story community center for the University of Tulsa (TU), an essential hub for students, faculty, alumni, and guests alike. This sprawling 78,000-square-foot facility is far more than just a building; it is the beating heart of campus life, offering everything from nine diverse dining options to critical student services and modern event venues. As of , the Union continues to host major community and academic events, solidifying its role as a vital nexus for the entire Tulsa community, including recent events like the Tulsa Public Schools Enrollment Expo and the Thomas Aquinas Conference.

Serving as the central gathering place, the Allen Chapman Student Union is designed to support the academic, social, and logistical needs of the University of Tulsa community. Its robust infrastructure and comprehensive services make it a premier destination on campus, reflecting a commitment to fostering a rich and connected collegiate experience. The building’s history, philanthropic roots, and continuous evolution are key to understanding its significant impact on TU life.

The Philanthropic Legacy of H. Allen Chapman and the Union's Mission

To truly appreciate the importance of the Allen Chapman Student Union, one must first understand the man behind the name. The facility is named in honor of H. Allen Chapman, a figure deeply rooted in the history of Tulsa and Oklahoma philanthropy.

H. Allen Chapman was the son of prominent Tulsa philanthropists, James A. Chapman and Leta Chapman. Born in Colorado in 1919, he spent the majority of his life in Tulsa, where he became a renowned Oklahoma Philanthropist in his own right. His family's dedication to the region's educational and cultural institutions, including the University of Tulsa, laid the groundwork for the Union's existence.

Although H. Allen Chapman did not attend TU, his family connection was strong; his wife, Mary Kathryn Lancaster, was a graduate of the university. The Union, therefore, stands as a testament to the Chapman family’s enduring commitment to supporting the students and the broader university mission.

The Union’s core mission is to serve as the ultimate community center. It is specifically designed to accommodate a diverse range of activities, from small workshops and group meetings to large academic seminars and major campus events. This dedication ensures that the facility remains a central, accessible, and inclusive space for all members of the University of Tulsa (UTulsa) community.

A Deep Dive into the Union’s World-Class Facilities and Services

The 78,000-square-foot Allen Chapman Student Union is a powerhouse of essential campus resources, neatly organized across its two floors. Following a significant renovation in 2014, and subsequent targeted projects like the Second-Floor Renovation completed by Key Construction, the facility is modern and highly functional.

The Culinary Hub: Dining Options That Define Campus Life

Perhaps the most frequented area of the Union is its extensive food court, which features a remarkable nine different eateries, catering to virtually every taste and schedule. This central dining area is a major draw, transforming the Union into a true culinary destination on campus. The current list of popular dining options includes:

  • Chick-fil-A: A major anchor, whose expansion was notably funded by a concert, demonstrating unique fundraising for campus improvements.
  • Subway: Offering fresh, customizable sandwich options.
  • Einstein Bros. Bagels: A go-to for breakfast, coffee, and quick lunch options.
  • Starbucks: Providing essential coffee and beverage services.
  • Sol Cantina: A popular choice for Mexican-inspired cuisine.
  • Gus T's Italian Kitchen: Catering to Italian food lovers.
  • Sushi: Providing a fresh and healthy alternative.
  • Pat Case Dining Center: While sometimes listed separately, it is a critical component of the overall campus dining experience managed by the Union’s services.

Beyond the food court, the Union also houses a dedicated convenience store for quick grab-and-go items, snacks, and other necessities.

Essential Student Resources and Community Events

The Allen Chapman Student Union is the operational center for many of the services that keep student life running smoothly. Its strategic location and comprehensive offerings save students time and provide easy access to critical administrative functions.

Key services housed within the Union include:

  • Housing and Dining Services: The central office for managing student residency and meal plans.
  • Offices for Student Organizations: Providing dedicated space for TU’s diverse array of clubs and student groups to meet, plan, and operate.
  • Catering Services (1894 Events & Catering): Offering full-service catering for events held both within the Union and across the campus.
  • Mail Service Offices: A crucial amenity for students receiving packages and mail.
  • ATM: Providing easy access to financial services.

The Union’s commitment to accessibility is also noteworthy, featuring a handicap-accessible ramp at the east entrance and the west end of the south patio, ensuring the facility is welcoming to all members of the Tulsa community.

A Hub for Current and Future Community Engagement

Despite being a central campus facility, the Union frequently opens its doors to the wider community, hosting significant regional events. This practice highlights the University of Tulsa’s role as a key partner in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Recent and upcoming events demonstrate the Union’s continued relevance and use as a premier venue:

  • Tulsa Public Schools Enrollment Expo: The Union’s large spaces, such as the Great Hall, are utilized to host major community outreach events, including the annual enrollment expo for the 2024-2025 school year.
  • Thomas Aquinas Conference: The facility regularly hosts academic and intellectual gatherings, with the 2024 Thomas Aquinas Conference being a notable example of its use for scholarly pursuits.

The continuous use for both internal university functions and external community events ensures that the Allen Chapman Student Union remains a dynamic, vibrant, and essential part of the life of the University of Tulsa and the surrounding city.

7 Shocking Facts About the Allen Chapman Student Union: The University of Tulsa's 78,000 Sq. Ft. Powerhouse
allen chapman student union
allen chapman student union

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