Algoma University Student Union sprucing up campus hangout

Algoma U student union renovates the SpeakEasy Despite COVID, the student union at Algoma University is moving forward with the overhaul of a student space known as the SpeakEasy.

Sault Ste. Marie — A $1.7 million investment by the Algoma University Student Union will see the SpeakEasy student space looking very different in the New Year.

“We’re trying to revamp the space and make it more welcoming and more developed, bring in some new technology and really improve the experience the students get to have here,” said student union president Yahaya Alphonse.

Site preparation is already underway, and Alphonse said the renovations could be finished before the end of the current school year.

“With construction, you’re never definitely sure," he said. "But by next year, we hope to have this done during the winter semester, so students can get the new experience once they’re back on campus."

The project, which is entirely funded by the student union, is moving ahead as COVID-19 continues to keep activity on campus to a minimum. However, that means construction at SpeakEasy will have very little impact on students and faculty.

“I am thrilled to see AUSU’s leadership and commitment in supporting the overall university priority of improving student experience,” said Algoma president and vice-chancellor Asima Vezina in a news release. “This is a student-driven project and they have done an absolutely outstanding job.”