New and improved University Club to reopen this spring

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The University Club, originally called the Faculty Club, will reopen in mid-April, after undergoing renovations that started in December 2011.

Renovations are being completed at the club now, and it should open during the second week of April, said University Spokesman Michael Nash.

The University Club was established at OU in 1925 and has been part of the university ever since. The club has had no major renovations in over 25 years, said President Boren in a press release.

The club serves as a gathering place for faculty, staff and graduate students, but it can also host events such as wedding receptions and private dinners, Nash said.

Undergraduate students may reserve the space for special events and may also use the club as guests of club members, Nash said.

The club stands as a separate legal entity from OU, meaning it can serve alcohol at events, along with being completely financially independent, Nash said. Members of the club pay monthly dues along with electing their own governing board.

“When they dine, no money changes hands. Instead, the charges, including gratuity, are added on the monthly bill,” Nash said.

Jan Crawford, in the name of herself and her late husband, Richard Crawford, donated over $1 million to the club to pay for the renovations, thus the club will be named after them, Nash said.

Part of the club’s renovations include expanding its kitchen to increase its ability to cater special events, along with providing space for new faculty recruitment luncheons and dinners, Nash said.

India Maxwell

India is a former staff member of The Oklahoma Daily who worked as Campus Reporter.