Columbus State University celebrated the grand opening of Clearview Hall, the university’s newest student housing complex, today, Aug. 25, during a ceremony and open house attended by University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby, Georgia State Representatives Calvin Smyre and Richard Smith, and Georgia State Senator Ed Harbison.

“This building will help CSU become a destination school for students,” said USG Chancellor Hank Huckaby.

The $25 million, 121,000-square-foot building overlooking campus is home to 457 first-year students, four learning communities and one faculty-in-residence member. On each floor of the new complex, pool tables, ping-pong tables, gaming systems and funky furniture provide residents a space that encourages interaction with other students and the campus.

Research has shown community living for first-year students helps them build connections with each other and the university, improving their social and academic adjustment to college life.

“Engagement is one of CSU’s core values, and engagement was at the forefront of our plans for Clearview Hall,” said Gina Sheeks, vice president for student affairs. “This building will have a tremendous impact on our students in terms of retention, progression and graduation.”

Students and parents took to social media to express their thoughts and opinion about the new building. A post of “sneak peak” pictures on CSU’s official Facebook page received more than 2,200 positive reactions, more than 300 comments, nearly 300 shares and nearly 14,000 clicks. On move-in day, one parent said she was relaxed instead of exhausted thanks to CSU’s easy check-in process.

“Campus housing has come a long way, and we are excited for our students to have what they have in this building,” said CSU President Chris Markwood.

Also part of Clearview Hall:

— Secure card-only access to each floor

— Three laundry areas

— Two full-size community kitchens

— Study spaces on each floor

Clearview Hall is the result of a Public-Private Partnership between the University System of Georgia and Corvias Campus Living to provide safe, affordable and quality student housing. Corvias acts as the facilities manager of the building, in addition to existing student housing at the Courtyard at CSU. Corvias will maintain both residence halls over the 65-year partnership.