The newly renamed Broyhill Events Center will not be a residence hall option for students living on campus next fall, Housing Director Tom Kane said.

Preparing for state approval to meet code and compliance upgrades and other renovations will take more time and money than previously thought, so the Broyhill will not be open as a residence hall anytime soon - if at all, Kane said.

But the center will now become a venue for students to congregate and study.

“We are trying to make it a more student-friendly environment,” Student Programs Director Dave Robertson said.

No renovations have been made to the interior for study rooms or gathering sites, Robertson said.

Students are encouraged to utilize the Broyhill for study group sessions and as a peaceful workplace.

The Broyhill Events Center has also become Appalachian’s second largest venue, after the Holmes Convocation Center, for university-sponsored events.

“Events such as club banquets, receptions, meetings, awards ceremonies and special events can now be held in the Broyhill facility for free, unless the event hosted has a fee for entry,” Robertson said.

Reservations for a room at the center must be made at least 21 days before the event is scheduled to take place.

Catering is available through Appalachian Food Services, but arrangements must be made separately. The center is equipped with special events staff who are available to help with room and equipment setup if needed.

“I can’t see how it will replace Legends for shows and concerts consistently, but I think it will be a great place for dances and events like that coming up in the future,” said junior Jeff Peterson, chair of the APPS special events council. 

The center is not available for reservations for public and community events for the time being, but the public is still welcome to attend any university-sponsored function that is open to the community. A final decision has not been made about the policy regarding community events at the center, Peterson said.

The Broyhill Events Center is currently open for student use from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday.

Story: MADISON FISLER, Intern News Reporter