On May 8, 1987, the Board of Trustees of the University voted to name the University Center the James B. Chavis Student Center in honor of Dr. James B. Chavis, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs.  The 65,000 square foot facility was designed by Hayes and Howell Architectural Associates of Southern Pines, North Carolina.  Furniture for the Center was provided by Hughes Rankin of High Point, North Carolina.  Mrs. Ethelyn M. Sauder of Homemakers, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, served as decorating consultant.

The James B. Chavis Student Center is dedicated to enhancing the University of North Carolina at Pembroke goal of offering a personalized setting for the continued excellence of the UNCP community.  Designed to serve as a central facility for student life on campus and for student/faculty/staff interaction, the University Center has shifted the nucleus of the campus northward.

The cheerful and convenient dining facilities attract students and others, as does the eight-lane Bowling Center located on the east side of the University Center.  Next to the Bowling Center, students are attracted to the Gameroom, a place for ping-pong, billiards, and various video games.  These recreational facilities are available to the general public.

The Student Lounge, located immediately to the left of the main entrance, serves as a meeting place and lounge for relaxation.  A beautiful brick fireplace adds warmth and beauty to the lounge.

A Faculty Lounge is located on the south side of the building to offer faculty the opportunity to interact in a comfortable setting.

Next to the Faculty Lounge, the Chancellor’s Dining Room provides facilities for dining/entertainment for special events.

The second floor houses offices for the James B. Chavis Student Center, the Career Center, Student Organization Resource Center, Housing & Residence Life and Campus Engagement and Leadership.  On the second floor you will also find a Meditation Room, and three (4) conference rooms.

The students, faculty, and staff of UNC Pembroke are grateful to the General Assembly of North Carolina, the North Carolina Board of Governors and President William Friday for making this building possible.  Individuals who were particularly influential in assisting with the acquisition of the marvelous facility are Former Lt. Governor Jimmy Green; House Speaker Liston Ramsey; Senator David Parnell; Representatives Dan DeVane, Pete Hasty and Sydney Locks.