Memorial Student Center

Project Summary

Memorial Student Center Renovation and Expansion

The Texas A&M Memorial Student Center (MSC) underwent a major renovation and expansion completed in 2012, transforming the historic student hub into a modern, flexible, and energy-efficient facility while honoring its significance as a living memorial. The project expanded the MSC to nearly 400,000 square feet, enhanced memorial elements, increased meeting and event capacity, and upgraded infrastructure to support the growing campus community.

Location

College Station, Texas

General Contractor

Vaughn Construction

Completion

2012

Project Description

Britt Rice Electric supported both electrical and low-voltage systems for the MSC renovation, providing design-assist coordination and complete installation of upgraded power, lighting, technology infrastructure, and life-safety systems throughout the expanded facility.

Key Features

• Significant expansion: Increased to approximately 400,000 square feet of usable floor space, including 71,000 square feet of new construction.
• Enhanced memorial displays: A redesigned interior wall honors Aggies who died in military service, and replicas of seven WWII Medals of Honor are prominently showcased in the Hall of Honor.
• Modernized “Flag Room”: The iconic Stephen Horn ’79 Flag Room was updated as a central gathering space for study, meetings, and events.
• Sustainable upgrades: Natural daylighting, occupancy sensors, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and limestone sourced from the original quarry improved efficiency while maintaining architectural continuity.
• Meeting and event enhancements: The Robert M. Gates Ballroom can be divided into five independent spaces, each with its own sound system, supporting over 1,300 student organizations.
• Dining and retail improvements: Expanded dining facilities and a new bookstore improved student access and reduced peak-hour congestion.
• Modern safety and accessibility: Comprehensive updates brought the entire building to current building, fire, life-safety, accessibility, and system standards.