Widener Unveils Campus Enhancements Ahead of Fall Semester

As Widener University prepares for fall semester, a series of campus improvements and new initiatives are set to enhance student life, strengthen community connections and create a more convenient and engaging campus experience.

The upgrades – most completed over the summer – reflect the university's ongoing commitment to student success.

"We continue to invest in the student experience in ways that help every student feel welcomed, supported and connected from their first day on campus," said Vice President for Finance and Administration Heather Meier, who also serves as the university’s chief financial officer. 

As students arrive for fall semester, the combination of new facilities, expanded services, and emerging academic initiatives reflects Widener's continued focus on creating an environment where students can thrive academically, socially and professionally.

New Campus Store Opens in University Center

Among the most visible additions this fall is the relocated Widener campus store, which has opened in the University Center next to Starbucks. 

The store moved in July from its previous location on Providence Avenue. 

The new space is stocked with an array of Widener merchandise and apparel, snacks and convenience items, academic supplies and textbooks. 

The location is designed to provide greater accessibility and a modern retail experience, conveniently in the heart of campus.

New Residence Hall

Widener acquired the former Best Western hotel this summer in response to strong undergraduate enrollment and the growing number of upper-level students who want to live on campus.

Now known as Providence Hall, the building has been updated to reflect our Widener Pride. Located across from Harris Hall, Providence Hall features approximately 60 rooms, each with private bathrooms, that are mostly double occupancy.

The building includes all new laundry machines,  a lounge/student area, all new furniture in the living spaces and new carpeting. It has ample gathering space in the lobby. 

Providence Hall has also been outfitted with smart-store vending technology, which provides a self-service retail unit that offers secure grab-and-go shopping. The system uses weighted shelves and cameras to track shopped items, and then students pay at the point of sale. The setup will offer snacks, beverages, and prepared foods such as sandwiches and salads. 

Like all campus residence halls, Providence Hall will be served by Campus Safety and includes secure access.

In addition, the university has added living space for nearly 30 students in the campus building at 503 E. 13th St. Like Providence Hall, this newly renovated space will be a home for returning students.

“We are excited that our campus is growing and delighted to offer new residential living options for our students,” Meier said.

Expanded Dining Options Bring Greater Flexibility

Students can also expect several enhancements to on-campus dining.

A new Widener food truck will debut this fall, bringing additional meal options to locations across campus. The mobile dining venue will feature rotating menus and themed food days while allowing students to use their existing dining plans. 

The truck will also make appearances at athletic competitions and major campus events. 

In addition, Harris Hall Commons will feature new smart-store vending technology with expanded hours, giving students access to fresh meals, salads, snacks and grab-and-go options beyond traditional dining schedules.

“Dining spaces play an important role in fostering community and connection among students,” said Vice President of Student Engagement and Transformation Fred McCall, who also serves as dean of students. “We consider these additions a key part of creating a welcoming campus environment.”

Widener is not changing the popular dining option that allows for student meal exchanges at UNO Pizzeria & Grill between Mondays and Thursdays.

Athletics Facilities Upgrades

Student-athletes and fans will see significant improvements at two of Widener's athletic venues this fall.

New turf installations at Quick Stadium and Dixon Field will enhance both practice and athletic competition experiences for student athletes, and game-day experiences for fans.

“These improvements support Widener's continued investment in student-athlete success and campus spirit,” said Crystal Gibson, executive director of athletics.

Additional Improvements Focus on Student Convenience

Several additional infrastructure and quality-of-life projects completed recently were aimed at making daily campus life easier for students:

•    Residence halls have been equipped with brand-new laundry machines, many featuring smart technology that allows students to monitor laundry cycles through a mobile app. Laundry services will remain free for students.

•    Transportation improvements have included an enhanced shuttle fleet with additional vehicles serving campus destinations as well as popular local stops such as Walmart and Wawa, improving accessibility and convenience for students without personal transportation.

The university’s Office of Transportation has adopted a new phone number for use in requesting a Widener Pride Ride shuttle: 610.499.1200. Students are encouraged to save it to contacts on their personal devices.

• Students will also benefit from expanded seating near Starbucks in the University Center. The security gate around Starbucks was reconfigured over the summer so the seating area can remain open and accessible even when coffee service is closed. This creates additional space for studying, socializing and relaxation.

•    Kitchen facilities were added to the International House. These new amenities allow Widener to provide greater support for students who remain on campus during academic breaks.

“This enhancement was intended to strengthen the sense of community and belonging for international students and others who rely on campus housing year-round,” McCall said.

•    A new wellness vending machine was installed in University Center. The machine provides quick access to everyday health and personal care essentials like pain relievers, cold and flue medicines, allergy relief and other quick comfort essentials.

•    New cardio and strength equipment will be added at Pride Recreation Center, with the second floor devoted to more plate loaded and cable machines and a more open floor plan.