The LSC
One of the most student-utilized student centers in the nation.
Information and Quick Facts
Year Established
1936
Year Constructed
1962
Original Purpose
Student Union
The LSC was first established in Johnson hall before the construction of the building now known as the LSC. It was known as the student union, which had some amenities students could use.
New Purpose
Student Center
From 1962 when the LSC was constructed to today it has served as the location for student organizations, such as fraternity/sorority life, and CSU Student Radio. It also hosts many on campus restaurants and employment opportunities for students.
Historical Overview
The Lory Student Center was named after Charles A. Lory. He was the president of Colorado A&M, (which was later renamed to Colorado State University) for over 30 years. It was originally known as The Student Union, where students could come to use some amenities and socialize with other students. However it was recognized as being inadequate as a student center as enrollment spiked dramatically in 1955.
The LSC was drawn up that same year and ground broke five years later. It was 140,000 Square feet smaller when construction finished in 1962 and it came to its full size in 1968. After the construction the LSC became home to all student organizations and slowly had more and more administration move into the building. All new students today visit the LSC to print their Student ID, and it is also home to a branch of Canvas Credit Union, CSU Student Radio, Venues for student performances, and an encapsulating art hall.
The LSC was ranked in the top 10 of all student centers in the nation, not due to its architectural achievement, but because of how many students use its facilities every day.
Building Timeline
Architecture Features
Mid-century Modernism
The LSC’s Design reflects a Mid-century Modernist Aesthetic, which aims to be more cost effective and functional then the older buildings in the oval, which are dominated by cream colored masonry and brickwork. It aimed to be elegant by simplicity. Using more durable materials, striking details, and a more limited pallet. Most students would not know the LSC will be 100 years old two decades from 2022, which speaks to its architectural success.
Steel and Glass Exterior
The LSC has a very defined modern aesthetic with its steel and glass construction.
Bright White Interior
The LSC has a bright and vibrant interior with mostly white and cream colors, and glass lets in a large amount of natural light giving it a welcoming feeling.
Notable Features:
Functional Aesthetic
The building conforms to a Mid-Century Modernist construction, with limited color and striking details.
Ornate Glasswork
One of the most striking features of the LSC is the glass artwork, including the large ram sculpture in one of the study wings.
Then and Now
Historical View
Pictured: the cafeteria of the old Colorado A&M student union, which was the original organization that evolved into the LSC. Image by Jim Sothers
Modern View
Pictured: the current LSC dining hall
Historical Significance
The creation of the Lory Student Center signified the end of old Colorado A&M. While CSU has never abandoned its aggie roots, the LSC ushered in a new era where agriculture is just another part of many that make up the study programs available at CSU.