SWC News Center

A New Heart for Campus Life: SWC Celebrates Grand Opening of Student Union

By SWC Staff - September 26, 2025

Chula Vista, Calif. — Southwestern College (SWC) has officially opened the doors to its brand-new Student Union on its Chula Vista campus—a vibrant hub designed to be the heart of campus life for students, staff, faculty, and the community.

The milestone was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, September 18, 2025, where guests got their first look at the striking two-story space filled with natural light, colorful gathering areas, and a mix of indoor and outdoor places to study, relax, and connect.

“This new Student Union was envisioned as the heart of campus—a vibrant hub where students can gather, connect, and belong,” said Rachel Fischer, M.Ed., Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Student Affairs. “It was shaped through a deeply participatory process that included workshops, interviews, and forums to make sure students, faculty, and staff had a real voice in the design.”

All of SWC’s students commute to campus, and the Union was designed with their wellness, comfort, and belonging in mind. The building blends cozy, intimate corners with large, flexible spaces that support everything from quiet study sessions to big campus celebrations. Bright terraces and shaded patios link indoor and outdoor areas, taking full advantage of Chula Vista’s sunny climate.

Throughout the Student Union, students will find spaces designed to support their well-being and success, including the Learning Communities Hub, Veterans Garden, multi-use lawn, roof deck, and recreation spaces. The food hall offers diverse dining options, while a meditation room and wellness workshop area provide spaces to recharge. The building also brings together key student support programs such as the Associated Student Organization, SWC Cares, Culinary Arts, Health & Personal Wellness, and the Veterans Resource Center. Students played an active role in shaping both the design and programming of the space, ensuring the building reflects their needs and priorities.

Technology and sustainability are at the heart of the Union. Students will find smart-classroom systems, digital collaboration spaces, interactive displays, contactless dining, and loaner laptops to support learning and connection. Sustainability features include daylighting, natural ventilation, green roofs, bi-facial photovoltaic panels, and energy-efficient materials. The building was strategically designed to minimize heat gain while maximizing natural light, and a solar panel canopy offsets energy use while providing shaded outdoor space.

At the center of the building is an open commons filled with flexible seating, vibrant colors, and plenty of sunlight. Surrounding it are centralized student services including Personal Wellness, Health Services, and SWC Cares’ Basic Needs programs such as the food pantry and closet, making it easier for students to access essential support without stigma.

“I love the open commons where natural light, vibrant colors, and flexible seating create a welcoming space for everyone,” Fischer said. “It’s a place where campus life truly comes together.”

Looking ahead, the college is planning to add dedicated cultural and identity spaces including a Dreamer Center, Pride Center, Men of Color Hub, and Native American Center. “Our students have voiced how important it is to see their identities reflected on campus,” Fischer said. “These spaces will provide a sense of belonging and serve as supportive areas where students can access resources, build community, and find mentorship.”

The new Student Union marks a bold step forward in building a more connected, welcoming campus experience at SWC. As students explore the space, they’ll find more than just a building—they’ll find a place designed for them.

For more information about the Student Union and upcoming events, visit our SWC Events Calendar.