The Darryl J. King Student Life Centre
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King's Living Room
King's Student Life Centre provides our community with a facility that is not only beautiful but functional. With everything from classrooms to a 490-seat theatre and a place to rest near a fireplace, the King Centre is a gathering place for our community.
The King Centre is named in recognition of a generous donation from Darryl J. King ’97. Darryl credits his experience at King’s for not only his professional success, but for developing his philanthropic outlook and belief in giving back to the community. Darryl has an inspiring story of how King’s is unique and looks beyond the grades to consider the person and circumstance.
Designed by Perkins+Will and Cornerstone Architecture, and built by K & L Construction, The King Centre is a 3,539 m2, two-storey (plus full basement) multi-purpose student centre. The building incorporates a variety of spaces created to serve students. These spaces include meeting rooms, a café, learning lounge areas, an auditorium, fitness centre, games room, and classrooms. Total cost of the project was $14.7 million dollars.
The Darryl J. King Student Life Centre is certified LEED Silver. LEED, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is an internationally recognized green building certification rating system. The building earned a Silver rating because of its many sustainable features such as a green roof rainwater cistern, and innovative green cleaning program. The building efficiently delivers and conserves water and energy, reduces urban head-island effect, has access to sustainable transportation, incorporates campus-wide recycling and streamlined cleaning, and uses low-emitting products and materials. Full details can be found at the LEED kiosk located next to the Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre.
The Student Life Centre was also the recipient of the Award of Excellence from the London Urban Design Awards, and the Award of Merit from the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) in 2015. The primary criteria for the London Urban Design Award are positive contribution to the public realm/quality of place, architectural excellence and a demonstration of fulfilling a clearly articulated urban design intent. The ARIDO Awards recognize excellence, innovation, and originality in interior design.
Russell Investments Classroom
KC 004
This space, located on the lower level of the King Centre, is named in recognition of a donation from Russell Investments.
KPMG Classroom
KC 005
This space, located on the lower level of the King Centre, is named in recognition of a donation from KPMG. KPMG Foundation along with John Leitch and John Vander Hoeven, partners at KPMG London, will jointly fund the naming of the KPMG Classroom in the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre.
Dr. J.D. Han and Dr. Hae Ryun Park Classroom
KC 006
This space is named in recognition of a donation from Drs. J.D. Han and Hae Ryun Park. Dr. Han worked at King’s as a faculty member for more than 22 years.
Gerry Killan/Ryan Gauss Student Lounge
KC008
This naming pays tribute to Dr. Gerry Killan and his time at King’s as principal and faculty member. In addition, the naming pays tribute to Ryan Gauss and Ryan’s involvement in starting the Student Life Campaign project. Gerry and Ryan initiated the Student Life Centre building project and laid the ground work for King’s largest fundraising campaign to date. Ryan Gauss was the King’s University College Students’ Council (KUCSC) president during the 2007-2008 academic year when the Campaign was launched.
Fitness Room
KC003
This convenient, on-campus fitness space has elliptical trainers, treadmills, stationary bikes, rowing machine, a TRX system, Smith machine and a functional training system where dozens of upper and lower body exercises can be performed. There are also dumbbell sets, skipping ropes, foam rollers, exercise balls, and incline and decline benches. The room is fully equipped with lockers for day use, change rooms and showers. You will need your OneCard to access the Fitness Room. A healthy body and a healthy mind are critical to having a positive learning experience – health and wellness are issues that matter to our students. King's convenient, on-campus fitness space has a range of fitness machines and other equipment, as well as lockers, change rooms and showers. Find more information on the Fitness Room on our Recreation@King's/Facilities page.
To see a list of upcoming yoga or meditation sessions, check out the King's events calendar.
Green Room
KC009
The green room, located below the Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre, provides gathering space for performers, such as the King’s Players and King’s Chamber Choir, and direct access to the stage. There are lockers and make-up stations available.
The Michael and Rosemary O’Hare Family Auditorium Lobby
KC101
This space is named in recognition of a donation from Mr. Michael O’Hare ’80 and Mrs. Rosemary O’Hare ’81. The Auditorium Lobby is located by the main entrance of the first floor of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre at the entrance to the Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre. This gift recognizes the commitment of the O’Hare family to King’s University College and celebrates the graduation of Lauren O’Hare ’12 from King’s University College, and her participation in the King’s Players and King’s Chamber Choir.
Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre
K103
The Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre is a 490 seat auditorium, with the first four rows removable in order to extend the stage. There are two screens and two projectors in the theatre. Basic theatrical lighting package is available for production, as well as a full sound board located in the control board overlooking the theatre.
This space is named in recognition of a donation from Joanne & Peter Kenny. Joanne & Peter feel very strongly about the small, caring and inclusive community at King’s University College and King’s leadership role as a undergraduate liberal arts institution of higher learning in Canada. Individual seats are named after donors. Seats are still available for $1,000 each.
Garron Family Learning Lounge
KC106
By Rykker Nyberg,Intern, Communications & Media Relations
At the heart of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre is the Garron Family Learning Lounge, located on the main floor, nestled in between the cafe and the Joanne and Peter Kenny Theatre.
The Garron Family Learning Lounge is quite a large space – about 18 meters by 15 meters – and flows directly into the Spriet learning commons. Included in this bright and open space are floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as the Hearth and Fireplace donated by Aramark Ltd.
The Learning Lounge was made possible through donations from the Michael Albert Garron foundation. Mark Garron(’84) believes that King’s provides students with a welcoming and inclusive environment for learning, and this area is certainly a testament to that.
Here, students can relax, read and study in a cozy environment. The Garron Family Learning Lounge is also home to a variety of different seating arrangements, including tables, benches, couches, and lounge chairs. It also includes the King’s Connection, where merchandise and event tickets can be purchased. This spacious room in the King Centre serves as the family room on campus, and gives students a space that truly represents the sense of comfort and community that King’s University College has to offer.
ARAMARK Canada Ltd. Hearth and Fireplace
Located on the main floor in the Learning Commons/Learning Lounge.
This space is named in honour of a donation made possible by a contribution from ARAMARK Canada, long-time partner and supporter of King’s. The beautiful King’s wooden crest located on the wall was created by Canadian artist Jonathan Pageau.
Andy & Helen Spriet Learning Commons
KC107
By Aaron Brown, Intern, Communications & Media Relations
The Andy & Helen Spriet Learning Commons is a natural space for students to study, as it flows from the Cardinal Carter Library. The area is named in recognition of a generous donation from Andy and Helen Spriet, and is located between the Garron Family Learning Lounge and the Cardinal Carter Library. The Learning Commons offers an alternative study environment that is ideal for both personal and group learning.
In addition to its numerous desk, stool and comfort seating options, the space also boasts electrical outlets, a photocopier and a projector screen for small presentations or important news events. It is also very close to Tim Horton’s for students who need a well-deserved study break.
Donor Andy Spriet is a former chair of the King’s University College Board of Directors and he and his wife Helen were the co-chairs of the Student Life Campaign.
The site is also used for special events such as trade shows, conferences and Open House Days.
Supported by Paul Dub ‘94 – The King’s Connection
KC111
This space is called The King’s Connection and is supported by a donation from Paul Dubb ’94. The King’s Connection is located on the main floor of the King Centre, next to the theatre and near the main entrance and is the retail store that sells King’s branded clothing, mugs, books etc. Paul developed the original Pro Shop while a student at King’s.
The Write Place
KC113
By Aaron Brown, Intern, Communications & Media Relations
The Write Place is a space provided by the Department of Modern Languages to help students improve their writing skills. Located on the main floor of the Student Life Centre beside Tim Horton’s, The Write Place is a free and confidential writing service that is open to helping students with any form of writing, from assignments to resumes. The aim of the service is not to edit for students, but to instead teach and guide students in how to proofread their own work, and become stronger writers overall.
Trained Peer Tutors are available to aid students from all disciplines for drop-in sessions, or by appointment. Dr. Dorothy Nielsen is also available for creative writing help, through one-on-one feedback or creative writing workshops. Appointments can be made in person or by phone (519-433-3491 ext. 4475).
Hours of operation: Monday – Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
;Friday: 10 am – 4 pm
Supported by Stinson Security Services – Security/First Aid Station
KC112
The Security/First Aid Station is supported by a donation from Stinson Security Services. Stinson Security is King’s security provider and a long-time supporter of the University.
Dr. Nicholas and Wendy Skinner Access Lab
KC118
By Moe Kablawi, Intern, Communications & Media Relations
The Dr. Nicholas and Wendy Skinner Access Lab is a computer lab designed for students with disabilities. This specific room is on the main level of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre (KC). There are two other access labs at King’s located in the Cardinal Carter Library. The two in the library are single rooms while the lab in the KC is a group room. The room is wheelchair accessible and has a height adjustable motorized desk. The lab provides an opportunity to aid students with disabilities in their academic learning by providing computers with specialized software.
Each computer is equipped with a text scanner, voice recognition (Dragon NaturallySpeaking), text-to-speech (Kurzweil 3000), writing organization (Inspiration), screen-magnification (Zoom-Text), screen-reading (JAWS) and CCTV. Of course internet access and Microsoft Office is also available. CCTV magnifiers provide low vision aid. The text scanner converts scanned documents to a digital copy that can be viewed and used with the other software. Dragon NaturallySpeaking enables students to interact with their computer by voice; speech to text technology. Inspiration allows users to visually organize and map out study materials. JAWS allows visually impaired users to screen and document contents read aloud. Kurzweil 3000 supports students in having printed materials read out loud. Zoom-Text provides screen magnification for students with visual impairments.
This space is named in recognition of a donation from Dr. and Mrs. Skinner. Dr. Skinner was a faculty member at King’s for 40 years.
Brent and Becky Shea Meeting Room
KC204
This space is named in recognition of a donation from Brent Shea ’80 and Becky Shea ‘79. Brent is an active member of the King’s community and is the current chair of the King’s University College Foundation Board.
Joan Smith Student Leadership Suite
KC208-212
The Joan Smith Student Leadership Wing will be home to the King’s University College Students’ Executive Council, their offices and meeting spaces, the student newspaper, Regis and several offices dedicated to student clubs that are responsible for a variety of student extracurricular activities.
This space in named in recognition of a donation from the late Don Smith. Don chose to name the King’s University College Students’ Council offices in honour of his wife, Joan Smith. The Smith family are long-time supporters of King’s.
BMO Financial Group Students' Council Boardroom
214A
This space is named in recognition of a donation from BMO Financial. BMO is the College’s bank and continues to be a generous supporter of King’s since the 1980s.
King's University College Alumni Association Meeting Room
214B
This space is named in recognition of a donation from the King’s University College Alumni Association. The Alumni Association board of directors felt strong that the Association should have a presence in the King Centre. This support conveys a message to the King’s Community the importance of staying connected to the University.
Reverend Edward J.R. Jackman Reflection Room
KC 219
By Alicia Mak, Intern, Communications & Media Relations
One of the most special features of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre is the Reflection Room. It is located on the second floor of the King Centre, down the hall from the Students’ Council offices and the meeting rooms. This space is named in recognition of a donation from Reverend Edward J.R. Jackman.
The reflection room features comfortable furniture and accessories to help people create a beautiful meditation space. The room is very spacious, comfortable and with a great view east onto Waterloo Street and the St. Peter’s Seminary lands. The large room windows unveil not only beautiful views, but also some of the best sights on the King’s campus.
The reflection room was designed as a place for students to come and take time out of their busy and stressful lives, to help them reflect on the positive aspects of life.
There is a beautiful waterfall in the center of the room, which creates a lovely and peaceful sound. The waterfall feature in the room was donated by the Students’ Council to add to the harmony and calmness of the space. The sound of the waterfall is very soothing and is known to help students with relaxation.
All are welcome to balance their mind and body with yoga classes held in the Refection Room. Yoga classes are offered to students, staff and faculty on Thursdays at 12:00pm. Yoga classes are open for beginners, and those who haven’t practiced for a while. They provide longer relaxation, more gentle breathing exercises, the twelve adapted basic postures, and a final relaxation.
This room is for students to use to take a break from their busy schedules. Visitors are asked to please be respectful and not to bring in any food or drinks into the Reflection Room. As well, visitors are asked to please turn off cell phones so that everyone can be in their own space in peace without the outside world constantly on their mind.
Yoga is a deeply personal experience and students are welcome to begin their yoga journey at King’s
Cram Family Gathering Place
The sitting area located in front of meeting rooms KC 203, KC 204 and KC 205.
This space is named in recognition of a donation from Lynne Cram. This area, located on the second floor of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre, overlooks the reading lounge in the Cardinal Carter Library dedicated to the memory of her grandmother, Eleanor MacDonald Ingram, and celebrates the Cram/Smith legacy of giving back in the London community. Lynne Cram has made a significant commitment to King’s University College through her many contributions as a member and current chair of the College Board.
Second Floor Study Rooms and the Cram Family Study Area
By Rykker Nyberg, Intern, Communications & Media Relations
There are eight study rooms located in the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre, three of which are located on the second floor, where quiet study time and great views of campus can be found. Rooms on the second floor can be found adjacent to the Cram Family gathering place, and the three rooms offer the perfect setting for group work and team meetings with seating for three to four people in each. These rooms do not include any audio or visual aids, however the rooms adjoining the King’s University College Student Council office are equipped with HDMI and VGA attachments, as well as white boards.
Bookings can be made by emailing bookings@kings.uwo.ca. Rooms are available for a maximum of two hours, and can be booked only once per day.
Outside of the study rooms is the Cram Family gathering place where one of the best views on campus can be found. Floor-to-ceiling windows add to the beautiful open space, and a row of personal study desks allows for ample room for students to work independently. You can stay connected no matter where you sit in the Cram Family gathering place, as there are outlets for powering computers all along the desks and campus Wi-Fi.
Tucked into a cozy alcove at the end of the hall are two comfortable chairs accompanied by small tables, where a view of the King’s University College campus and its surrounding area can be enjoyed.
The Cram Family gathering place, pictured above, provides a great space for quiet study, relaxation, and reflection. For the best view of campus, head to the second floor of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre and enjoy all of the beauty that the campus has to offer.
Games Room
KC207
By Aakash Dubey, Intern, Communications & Media Relations
Another exciting area in the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre is the games room. Originally located on lower level of Monsignor Wemple Hall across from the cafeteria, the games room was relocated to the Student Life Centre in 2014. The room looks out onto the green roof between the King Centre and the library, and also overlooks the learning lounge on the main floor.
The games room provides a casual space in which students can gather and make use of its amenities, such as the pool table, Ping-Pong table and foosball table along with video games.The games room incorporates a PlayStation gaming console with a T.V. and a couple of couches to create a fun zone. On the other side of this room are notice boards and another T.V. being the visual section of the bulletin board.
Sponsored, run and maintained by the King’s University College Students Council, the games room is arranged with the intent of creating a comfortable resting atmosphere for students to take a break from studies.
Students can access the PlayStation equipment required by locker keys available at the Library and Ping-Pong paddles from King’s Connection located on the main level by providing their student cards.
Rosemary’s Courtyard
Green space facing St. Peter’s Seminary, outside the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre.
This outdoor space is named in recognition of a donation from Henry Thuss, and additional support from family and memorial donations. This naming pays tribute to a treasured member of the King’s family, Rosemary Thuss, and reflects her love of gardening, flowers and the outdoors. This green space facing St. Peter’s Seminary will be an extension into the outdoors from the learning commons and lounge areas in the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre.
Cornerstone Architecture seating
Bench in the main entrance sitting/garden area
This bench is named in recognition of a donation from Cornerstone Architecture. Cornerstone Architecture, in conjunction with Perkins & Will, designed the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre
King’s University College Students’ Council Garden
The sunken garden located at the south side of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre.
King’s University College Students’ Council Water Feature
The water feature is located in the second floor Reflection Room (room 219).
King’s University College Students’ Council Green Roof
The above namings are in recognition of a donation from King’s University College Students’ Council (KUCSC) through funds made available following negotiations with Western University Students’ Council on behalf of the King’s student body. In recognition of the leadership of King’s students in the greening of the Darryl J. King Student Life Centre and their commitment to the environment, this donation will help ensure the LEED Silver status of the building and will support the green roof, the addition of a water feature in the reflection room and the sunken garden.