Center opens

The Thad Cochran Center, a project 14 years in the making, opened its doors to the USM student body, faculty, and staff at the beginning of the fall 2006 semester.

A 237,000 square foot facility, the Thad Cochran Center is the new home to many valuable student and staff services.

"The project was costly, but I think it was also a very wise investment for our university," said Dr. Joe Paul, vice president of student affairs. "I think that the center is the most significant and transformational building at Southern Miss. Also, I think that the center is going to prove to be a beneficial tool in recruitment of new students to the university while it helps with the retention of our students as well."

The center boasts several accommodating areas, including the second largest Barnes & Noble bookstore east of the Mississippi River; a ballroom on the third floor, which can sit 1000 for meetings, and 750 for dining.

"There are still a few areas in the building that are not yet finished, such as the three-part mural and the stadium-style theater," said Paul.

The planning for the building started over a decade ago at the request of President Thames.

"He wanted to give something back to Senator Cochran because of the tremendous amount of work he has done with USM and for its students," said Paul. "One such incident was his relentless effort to allocate $22 million for students affected by Hurricane Katrina."

Construction on the facility began over a year ago and cost $30 million.

Although the center has opened to students already, a grand opening is scheduled for Sept. 5-9.

"There are going to be several events scheduled," said Jennifer Rigney, assistant director of sales and promotions for the Thad Cochran Center. "We are going to have daily tours of the facility so that people can explore the building. Also, there will be live music and entertainment, book signings, and giveaways. There will also be an Iron Chef competition hosted by the Fresh Food Company."

Other activities include a student art show, a blood drive, and an international food fair. "The chefs of the Fresh Food Company are going to be preparing a variety of international cuisine for people to enjoy."

"We are looking forward to the grand opening as an opportunity to celebrate this magnificent building," said Barbra Ross, union and programs director, in a press release Aug. 21. "This facility is the largest construction project ever undertaken on the Hattiesburg campus of the University of Southern Mississippi."

The center is also home to the offices of event services and dining services. There are 10 meeting rooms that seat between 20 to 175, as well as a presidential suite that will be used for conferences, dining and reception. There is also technology atrium with a five-feature technology screen.

"This is a time to celebrate the beginning of a new era at Southern Miss," said Sid Gonsoulin, associate vice president of Student Affairs in the same release. "This center brings state-of-the-art meeting facilities, fine dining and student services together under one roof. This will enhance the student experience at Southern Miss. It is one of the finest facilities, not only in Hattiesburg and the state of Mississippi, but in the South."