Academic Affairs News

Dear Faculty, Staff, and Students,

As we pass the midpoint of the semester, we want to share an important update regarding the opening of the Commons at Helm Library.

Initially, our target was to open the Commons near the beginning of the fall 2021 semester. Throughout the summer, it became apparent that pandemic-related obstacles, including supply chain disruptions, materials shortages and workforce challenges would prevent an August opening. We remained optimistic that the Commons would be available for our campus community’s enjoyment during the fall semester. However, the unprecedented challenges have persisted, and it is now clear that we will not open the Commons this fall.

After consulting with the many different entities involved in completing work on the Commons, the project is currently on track to open during the spring 2022 semester. However, if the pandemic has taught us anything, it is that plans must be fluid as unforeseen challenges can arise. We will communicate a firm opening date as we get closer to that time.

Among the complexities involved in this project is providing food options at the top of the Hill. We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the campus community concerning the food trucks and our Local Restaurant Row. However, we realize that as the weather continues to transition and we welcome colder temperatures, it’s necessary that we modify our current operations. This week, you will notice the seating tent enclosed. Additionally, WKU Restaurant Group will monitor temperatures, and, when necessary, provide heating within the tent. We hope these additions keep our WKU Community as warm as possible while dining outdoors.

We appreciate everyone’s patience and flexibility as we finalize the work on our Commons, and we are grateful to all those who have contributed to this important project. We look forward to enjoying this innovative and transformative space on our Hill in the near future.

For more information about the Commons, including architectural renderings, schematics, and webcam updates, please visit https://www.wku.edu/commons/.

Robert "Bud" Fischer
Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Susan Howarth
Executive Vice President for Strategy, Operations and Finance

Ethan Logan
Vice President for Enrollment and Student Experience