When students arrived back to campus on Jan. 22 for the first day of the spring 2025 semester, they were welcomed to a surprise inside Tuohy Hall; the student lounge was renovated over the winter break. The newly updated space is bright and welcoming, offering St. Joseph’s University, New York students a modern study and meeting space on the Brooklyn Campus.
“The newly renovated student lounge in Tuohy Hall provides students with a space featuring updated technology, new seating options and enhanced functionality. It offers a welcoming environment for studying, socializing or hosting campus events, improving the student experience and building a stronger sense of community,” said David Gonzalez, interim assistant vice president for student life, leadership and intercultural engagement.

New students gathered inside the renovated space for an orientation during common hour on Jan. 22.
The project to update the lounge, which serves as a hub for students and hosts other campus events and activities, began as soon as fall 2024 semester exams ended. The work was completed entirely by SJNY buildings and ground staff, according to Dan Valenza, director of physical plant. Updates span from new paint and ceiling tiles to improved lighting and technology upgrades. SJNY students played a role the final look of the lounge, helping select paint colors.
The lounge provided a warm location for an orientation session for students new to SJNY this spring semester. Held during Common Hour, students were served lunch and provided with information to help acclimate them to campus.
Another popular spot for students inside Tuohy Hall is the Bear Cave; this more casual meeting space, which includes pool and foosball tables, was renovated in 2019 after successful fundraising.