A student center is a place where students gather around good food, fun entertainment, great friends and new memories. It is the center of student life on campus — a place where students can enjoy interaction in a relaxed environment. It is a place where we bring visitors and incoming students — a place that enhances experiences and brings people together. A student center’s main purpose is to serve as the principal gathering place for a campus.

We aim to reinstate that purpose at N.C. State through today’s Rally4Talley fee referendum vote.

Talley Student Center was completed in 1972 when the University’s student body totaled just more than 14,000. Thirty-seven years and 20,000 students later, Talley no longer serves the purpose for which it was originally created.

Today, you have the opportunity to vote on the Atrium and Talley Student Center Renovation and Expansion Project. A vote in support of this project means that future students who entrust their education to NCSU will have a place to take visitors, a place to enjoy student life — an appropriate gathering place.

I realize that it is difficult for many students to justify paying a fee for a building they may not utilize during their time as students. However, I challenge you to think of all the buildings and facilities you have enjoyed that were made possible by students and others before you. All of the buildings and traditions on campus that began before you came to the University are what make the bond among alumni who have walked this campus so strong. Imagine the University without Reynolds Coliseum, the Brickyard or the Bell Tower. Each of our unique landmarks serve campus differently, contributing to shared experiences and lifelong memories.

As the University continues to grow in size and stature, it is critically important that it has the proper facilities to support student activity. Your contributions to this project will help your alma mater to continue serving the best interests of students.

You have a unique opportunity, at a young age, to make your mark now by committing a portion of students’ fees to this project. You will be leaving behind a legacy for the future, and when you come back to campus, you can take pride in knowing that you made this campus better — made it a place that you can be proud to come home to.