The four-story campus center will have a 179-foot bell tower of limestone and glass that will serve as a navigational point for people on campus and off. Situated at the intersection of University Boulevard and Michigan Street, the Campus Center will be located in the geographic heart of the campus.

Construction of the center is expected to begin in the spring.

"The Campus Center is another mark of IUPUI's coming of age," said IUPUI Chancellor Charles Bantz. "After first investing in classrooms and laboratories and spaces that support faculty in their teaching and research with our students and community, the campus is turning to construction of spaces that will bring students, faculty, and staff together in ways that have not been possible."

"It is a revolution for the campus," said Karen Whitney, vice chancellor for student life and diversity. "It will allow students to organize their lives in ways they can't right now."

The campus center will feature a 250-seat theater, a 600-seat dining area and a 1,000-seat multipurpose room. It will also provide gathering spaces and lounges for students, faculty and staff.

In addition, the facility will house support programs such as the enrollment center and campus bookstore.