A Student's Home Away from Home
The Morris University Center was opened in 1967 to provide a place where students could find social, recreational, cultural and educational activities and events beyond academics. Often referred to as ‘the living room’ of campus, the MUC offers everything from a multitude of dining and shopping options, to a recreational center where students can bowl and play pool, arcade games and table tennis.
Originally named the University Center, in 1998 the Morris University Center was renamed after Delyte W. Morris, who was the longest-serving SIUE president, from 1948-1970. Under the leadership of Morris, the MUC, as well as some of the other buildings on campus, were constructed. His concept was not to have his new campus fall under the conventional form of a university. Instead he wanted SIUE to be a “bold and experimental institution.”
The Morris University Center was built with the concept of using the pre-existing environment to showcase the campus. Brick was used, as it is a material whose appearance varies with natural conditions and glass was added to welcome natural light throughout the building.
Nicknamed the MUC, the Morris University Center celebrated 50 years in March of 2017.
The Morris University Center hosts numerous events and activities throughout the year for students and the surrounding community as part of SIUE’s traditions. At these events, students can enjoy free treats, play games and win prizes. During the school year, the Goshen Lounge serves as the hub for these activities. The MUC encourages student attendance of these events through postings and social media including the MUC Text Club.
