Transforming Space, Building Community:

When Student Affairs reached out to Facilities Management for help with another renovation, it was the continuation of a trusted partnership built over years of collaboration. This time, the focus was on supporting the Strategic Asian Pacific Islander Retention Initiative (SA/PIRI), a program dedicated to empowering students through mentorship, advocacy, and cultural connection. 

The goal was simple but impactful: relocate the SA/PIRI group from the University House Annex to a more central and accessible location in the Memorial Union. Work began at the start of summer break, with completion timed perfectly for the beginning of the fall quarter. The project brought together multiple Facilities trades, including carpentry, painting, flooring, locksmith, HVAC/mechanical, HVAC controls, and electrical, in a coordinated effort to reimagine the space. 

Technically, the renovation involved constructing two new offices and creating openings between existing rooms to improve flow and connectivity. Student Affairs worked closely with the SA/PIRI team to select wall and flooring colors that would represent their community’s identity and vision. The result is a bold, vibrant palette that reflects the energy and pride of the students the program serves. 

More than a renovation, this project demonstrates how Facilities can help transform existing campus spaces to align with student needs, university goals, and inclusive design principles. All materials used in the project were carefully vetted to meet current safety standards and ensure a healthy environment for occupants — a reflection of Facilities Management’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and well-being. 

Now, SA/PIRI has a welcoming, functional environment where students can gather, collaborate, and build community. The new location not only enhances visibility and access but also reinforces UC Davis’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and student success. With finishes and materials expected to last 10–15 years, the space will serve as a vibrant home for connection and cultural celebration for years to come.