A place to unwind between classes. A comfortable spot to study. A welcoming space to connect with others who share a military connection. Heidelberg University’s new Veterans Lounge offers all that and more – with an open invitation to those who are part of the university community’s military family.
Located on the second floor of the Campus Center, the newly opened lounge provides a dedicated space for Heidelberg students who are military veterans and those whose parents have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Designed to be comfortable, inviting and accessible, the lounge reflects a campus-wide effort to create a place where these students can relax, recharge and feel at home.
The project brought together several campus partners, led by Dean of Student Affairs Chris Abrams, who oversees Veterans Affairs at Heidelberg; Kiki Lorann, administrative assistant in the Student Affairs Office; and Victoria Black, Chief Human Resources and Compliance Officer and a U.S. Navy veteran.
It also represents a fresh start for an idea that had been around for some time. Heidelberg previously had a veterans space tucked away in the basement of the Campus Center, but its location and setup made it difficult for students to discover and use.
Moving the lounge to the building’s main floor changes that.
“We used to have a lounge tucked away downstairs. By moving it up to the second floor, it becomes a more prominent location for people to see,” Kiki said. “I think that will be a benefit to utilizing what’s available in the room.”
And what's available is designed to make students feel welcome.
Kiki took the lead on decorating the space, creating a patriotic atmosphere with red, white and blue accents, American and military branch flags, and thoughtful décor throughout. Comfortable furniture makes it easy to settle in, while a computer station offers a convenient place to work or study. Students also have access to snacks, a refrigerator and a coffee maker.
“I’m proud of the way it turned out,” she said.
The transformation was made possible through the enthusiasm and support of multiple campus partners, along with resources brought together to help move the project forward.
“A number of people got excited about doing this and making it happen on a larger scale,” Chris said.
The lounge is about more than creating a designated room. It's about making sure students with military connections have a place of their own – somewhere they can step away from the pace of campus life, focus on their studies or simply enjoy a little downtime.
“It’s an opportunity for them to get away and relax – a quiet place to study and catch up,” Chris said.
Victoria has also played an important role in bringing the vision to life, including providing the snacks and beverages that help make the lounge feel like a home away from home. As a Navy veteran herself, she brings a personal connection to the project and understands the importance of recognizing and supporting those with military ties.
“As a Navy veteran, this project is especially meaningful to me,” Victoria said. “I understand the sacrifices made by veterans and their family members. I donate snacks and drinks to the Veterans Lounge to give back to other veterans and their family members and to show my appreciation for the sacrifices they’ve made for this country.”
The lounge is open 24/7, giving eligible students the flexibility to use the space whenever they need it.
The project organizers are eager to spread the word and make sure students know the lounge is there for them.
“We’re excited to let the students it’s intended for know it’s available and that they’re welcome to use it any time,” Chris said.