NCCC Student Senate members Maria Parise and Mariana De Pombo cut the ribbon to Neosho County Commuity College’s Student Union Plaza on Wednesday, May 14.
A formal ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the Student Union Plaza project on the Neosho County Community College Chanute Campus on Wednesday, May 14.
Ahead of the May 2025 NCCC Board of Trustees Meeting, the NCCC Foundation welcomed students, staff, trustees, and community members to unveil the project located on the north side of the NCCC Student Union.
“This project began in 2020 to address campus drainage issues,” said Yvonne Hull, NCCC Foundation Director of Development. “Unfortunately, everything was put on hold during the COVID-19 pandemic. The NCCC Foundation is honored to be a small part of this process and not only rectify the drainage issue but also provide an amazing outdoor space to be utilized by our students, faculty, staff, and community.”
NCCC Student Senate members Maria Parise and Mariana De Pombo were given the honor of cutting the ribbon for the new student-focused space.
Abby Hoy, Landscape Architect for Barlett & West, Josh Walker, President & Owner of Loyd Builders, and Jennifer Dietsch, NCCC Foundation Board President, were also in attendance for the event.
“The trustees are very happy with how this project came together, it’s just phenomenal” said Dennis Peters, NCCC BOT Chairperson. “I want to reiterate how appreciative we are for all the donations. We’re especially excited to hear that the students are already enjoying the space.”
The project was split into two phases of work – stormwater management below ground and the new construction above ground.
The first phase of the project was completed in October and included stormwater management to reduce flooding risk in the Student Union and Panther Gymnasium.
The recently completed phase two includes a new space for students to hang out and study, as well as for classes and clubs to meet. The space includes benches, four regular tables with seating, a high-top table with eight seats, a fire pit, commemorative paving stones, along with various plantings and natural grasses.
The NCCC Foundation is still accepting applications for commemorative paving stones to be installed around the walkway of the plaza. For more information contact the NCCC Foundation by email, foundation@
