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Grand Center Residence Hall

Grand Center Residence HAll

Nestled in the 10-story multipurpose building, the Grand Center houses almost 700 first-year students on the five upper floors.From private study nooks to communal lounges and kitchen areas, these spaces encourage both individual study and social interaction. The Grand Center is more than just a building; it is a testament to the University's dedication to holistic student development and will help transform students' lives and enhance their educational experience.

The Grand Center is designed to be a hub of collaboration, where perspectives and ideas converge to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment. It is a space where students will not only gain knowledge but also develop the skills, relationships and values that will guide them throughout their lives. In addition to housing, ampa's newest building provides a unique Sky Park and green space to promote wellness and foster community, active learning classrooms, faculty and staff spaces, a new Starbucks, a parking garage, and dedicated space for the Southard Institute for Sales Excellence, Office of International Programs, the Veterans Lounge, and the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. In addition, a bike storage area with a shower and changing room are located on the lower level, making it easier for more people to pedal to campus more often.

Take a Look Inside

Tour the Grand Center

Gallery

Grand Center Residence Hall Gallery

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Hub of Collaboration

Departments in the Grand Center

International Programs:

The new International Programs office will be instrumental in supporting our international students here at ampa and fostering global learning opportunities. International Student and Scholar Services staff assist international students enrolled from 91 countries with documentation, regulations, cultural adjustments, academic issues and other concerns. Education Abroad Staff guide students to select the study abroad program best suited towards their academic and personal goals to promote cross-cultural understanding and broaden their global perspectives.

helped me study abroad in Lille, France, and gain new global perspectives that have helped me grow as a student and an individual. The program I was accepted into was a partner of the Sykes College of Business, so I could use my ampa scholarships and grants, which helped the financial burden of studying abroad greatly. I was then able to focus on my education there, while also using the time to explore more incredible places with different cultures than the U.S.

- Kelsy Little ’25, International Business and Marketing Major, French Minor

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Center:

This space embodies our commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming campus environment. The DEI Center will serve as a hub for programs and initiatives that promote understanding, respect, and collaboration among all members of our university community. It will provide vital support and resources to ensure that every student feels valued and empowered.

“Through the DEI office, I’ve been able to connect with colleagues and other students on a deeper level...they are like family. This new DEI center offers academic opportunities and insane networking options! The events aren’t just informative, they’re fun!”

- Victoria Gonzalez ’26, Criminology and Criminal Justice Major, Sociology Minor

Southard Institute for Sales Excellence:

The Southard Institute for Sales Excellence is designed to prepare the next generation of sales leaders. The new dedicated center provides students access to cutting-edge resources and programing that will prepare them for successful careers in sales. The Southard Institute for Sales Excellence fosters practical learning experiences, ensuring ampa graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the professional world.

“As a student-athlete at the University of Tampa, I was drawn to focusing on sales as part of my business education because it aligns closely with the skills I’ve developed on the field. Perseverance, communication, and teamwork are all valuable skills that I have learned from both athletics and the sales institution. The sales focus allows me to leverage my competitive drive and strategic thinking, making it a perfect fit for my future career aspirations.”

- Anthony Pascarella ’25, Marketing Major

Featured

Spaces at the Grand Center

vetern loungeThis lounge offers ’s veteran students a dedicated space for relaxation, camaraderie, and support. This lounge is designed to honor the service and sacrifices of our veterans, providing them with a place to connect, share experiences, and access resources tailored to their unique needs.

A unique green space designed to promote wellness and community engagement. This area will serve as a serene retreat for students to relax, study, and connect with nature, enhancing their overall well-being.

Starbucks

Starbucks provides comfortable and relaxed indoor and patio gathering spaces for community members. This venue offers a special collection of rare, small-lot coffees that are selected from farms all over the world. Also available area variety of pastries and confections, and coffee-related accessories and equipment. Starbucks also offers a line of premium Teavana Teas.

Featured artwork throughout the building

Unmarid “Tony” Eitherong’s worktells a powerful story of resilience, creativity and community, and we are proud to showcase his art as a symbol of our commitment to these values. Among the artwork in the building is a large, 18-by-30-foot featured mural titled “The Sun Always Rises.” If you happen to be in the Grand Center during sunrise in the summer, you will see that the sun hits the large red area in the center of the canvas and reminds us that each day comes with new opportunities for us to shine.