The Columbia College community gathered Thursday, Sept. 25, to dedicate the newly renovated Atkins-Holman Student Commons on main campus in Columbia, Missouri.
The renovation was part of more than $2.2 million in campus improvements that have been completed or are underway around the campus in 2025, including to Stafford Library, the Kirkman House for the Music Program, the Koepke Fitness Center and more.
There has been a significant uptick in traffic in the student commons since the upgrades.
“Columbia College is a very special place that adapts to meet the needs of our students,” said Dr. Dave Roberts, Associate Vice President for Student Experience and Dean of Students. “Our hope was to create a space that felt like the living room of campus, where students can gather with friends, find a quiet place to study, or just take a break between classes.”
Members of the Columbia College Board of Trustees and the Columbia Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors convened for a special ribbon-cutting ceremony in front of an assembly of onlookers, including students, administration, faculty, staff and friends.
The project, which features brand new furnishings and a modernized design, was made possible by a transformational estate gift from Christian College Class of 1965 graduate Billie Jo Wanink. Wanink, who passed away last year, built an illustrious career in interior design and furnishing, owning her own successful business.
In a display of lifelong affinity to Columbia College, Wanink served on the Board of Trustees and the Alumni Association Advisory Council.
“As an expert in interior design, I am sure Billie Jo would have been pleased with the new look that has been created and how our students make use of this space to study and gather each day,” Vice President for Advancement Greg Hulen told the crowd. “She shows the difference that one person can have at Columbia College. Let’s celebrate her today and be inspired by her example.”
The improvements include a redesign of Burchards’ Cougar Café, named after Hall of Fame former athletic director Bob Burchard and former Dean of Students Faye Burchard, who were in attendance for the celebration.
As part of the renovation, the Cougar Café will offer a rotating concept each semester that will be voted on by students, while continuing to serve Starbucks Coffee and convenience items. This semester, the café is serving Union BBQ, which offers delicious fresh-smoked meats and homemade sides that attendees sampled at the dedication.
The renovation of the Café is also a celebration of Columbia College’s renewed partnership with Elior Collegiate Dining Services.
The upgrades underscore the college’s commitment to an excellent experience for all students, whether on main campus, at one of the nationwide locations or in the Online Program. The work is part of a continued effort to build momentum leading into CC’s 175th anniversary in 2026.
“Fulfilling our mission of improving lives requires collaboration across the institution, support from leadership, the faith of our trustees and the generosity of donors,” Roberts said.
