Since opening in 1971, Marshall University’s Memorial Student Center has served as the “heartbeat” campus, providing social, dining, meeting and entertainment venues for the school. In the 50 years since its opening, the needs of students, faculty and visitors require have shifted. The lobby was updated to better serve students’ needs while also becoming a more inviting space. The fireplace, a central feature of the space, was updated to become a more attractive focal point for the University’s annual memorial ceremony. The entire lobby was updated to create a more contemporary environment that better reflects the image of Marshall University.