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HUNTINGDON -- Juniata College has opened a new campus space aimed at supporting transfer and commuter students.
The Aspire Center, located in Ellis Hall, is designed as a multipurpose hub for connection, engagement and academic support, college officials said.
"The Aspire Center serves to centralize and accelerate support for transfer students, fostering critical connections that students make at Juniata -- with one another and with faculty and administrators that are fundamental to their success," said Matthew Damschroder, vice president for student life and dean of students.
The center was funded through an American Talent Initiative grant in partnership with the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program and Ithaka S+R, with support from Bloomberg Philanthropies.
College officials said the center is part of the broader Aspire Juniata project, developed in partnership with Penn Highlands Community College to better serve local transfer students.
Juniata enrolled its largest transfer class at the start of the 2025-26 academic year, with additional growth expected. The new space is intended to help those students integrate into campus life and build connections.
Karis Cornelius, assistant director of transfer student success and a Juniata alumna who transferred to the college, said the center is designed to foster a sense of belonging.
"I found my home at Juniata, but that didn't happen right away," Cornelius said. "I am ecstatic to have a part in providing this opportunity for our students to know they belong here."
The Aspire Center will function as both a lounge and programming space, offering areas for studying, gathering and student-led activities. Officials said it is especially beneficial for commuter students who spend time on campus between classes.
More information about transfer opportunities and the Aspire Center is available at juniata.edu/transfer.