A message from the Auraria Campus CEO, Colleen Walker

The Tivoli: A storied history, an iconic façade, and the heart of the Auraria Campus. Once a brewery, then a mall—students voted in 1991 to transform it for educational use. By 1994, the Tivoli Student Union opened its doors. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973, it remains a protected landmark and a central gathering place.

We all have a Tivoli memory—meeting friends, grabbing a bite, or finding the perfect study spot. It’s where school lines blur and CityHawks, Roadrunners, and Lynx come together. Now, it’s time for the Tivoli to get the “glow up” it deserves.

The Tivoli isn’t a single building, but a collection of interconnected spaces added over generations, each telling a story of its time. That layered history creates a unique opportunity: to unify the space into something cohesive, welcoming, and inspiring.

Today, Tivoli is many things: a coffee stop, study nook, event venue, thoroughfare, and hangout. Let’s shape it into a student union that invites people to linger—to study, collaborate, and celebrate. A place that energizes campus life and makes Auraria feel like home, even after your last class.

This is more than a renovation—it’s a legacy. While you may graduate before the vision is fully realized, you’ll always be a part of this place—and always welcome back as alumni. We’re asking for your ideas and input to help shape the Tivoli for generations to come.

This is your Tivoli Student Union. Let’s reimagine it—together.

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Share your voice, take the survey, and be entered to win a Tivoli Reimagined t-shirt, a Starbucks gift card, a one-day parking pass, or the GRAND PRIZE of a semester-long GOLD-level parking passport (students only, one per institution).

View giveaway terms and conditions here

Terms & Conditions


  • The Tivoli Reimagined engagement launches during the first two weeks of the Fall 2025 semester. Look for in-person staffed information tables at:
    • Tivoli Student Union
    • Jordan Student Success Building
    • Student Commons Confluence
    • Additional locations TBD
  • We’re hosting a focused student engagement session for those who want to go deeper in shaping the future of the Tivoli Student Union. Join us on Wednesday, September 17, from 11-1 PM for an interactive session where your voice will directly inform the redesign.
  • All participants will receive a free Tivoli Reimagined t-shirt!
  • Space is limited—click here to RSVP to secure your spot.
  • Join us to review progress on the Tivoli Program Plan. Preview early design concepts and share your thoughts. Participate in live Q&A, interactive feedback, and collaborative activities to help shape the final plan. 
  • Can’t attend in person? An online survey will be available to collect your feedback as well.

Project phases

FAQs

Q: Who’s on the steering committee?

A: The 28-member steering committee membership includes folks from the Community College of Denver, Metropolitan State University of Denver, the University of Colorado Denver, and Auraria Campus. Students, faculty, and staff are represented on the committee as well.

Q: Who’s paying for this?

A: We know funding is a key concern, especially for students. Here’s how we’re approaching it:

Phase I: Maintenance and Repairs
Auraria Campus is requesting $26.9 million in Capital Renewal Funds from the State of Colorado to address critical maintenance needs (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, etc.). These funds are designated specifically for public buildings.

Phase II: Tivoli Reimagined
The broader renovation and modernization project will be funded through a mix of sources:
A Capital Construction Fund request to the State Legislature
Potential public-private partnerships (P3s) that can bring in outside investment to help support long-term infrastructure or retail opportunities

A student fee, but only if needed and only with full transparency, student involvement, and decision-making
Think of this like contributing to a shared public service—similar to how we fund libraries, parks, or transit. Everyone chips in to create something lasting, equitable, and accessible. This is legacy work. We’re investing in a student union that is open, safe, and welcoming for all—a space that reflects the diverse needs of our community, now and for generations to come.

Q: How will feedback be used?

A: Feedback from students, faculty, and staff will directly inform the program plan for the Tivoli Student Union. ZGF is building on the 2021 feasibility study conducted by Hord Coplan Macht by validating earlier insights and expanding on them through fresh engagement this fall. Your input will help shape how the building functions, feels, and serves the campus community.

Q: Will there be more student spaces/lounge areas?

A: That depends on you! The Auraria Campus will use feedback from this fall’s engagement efforts to develop the program plan for the Tivoli Student Union. If students express a strong desire for more lounge areas or student-focused spaces, that input will directly shape the final plan. Your voice matters—now’s the time to share what you want to see.

Q: Will Tivoli close during construction?

A: The Tivoli Student Union will remain open during the engagement and planning process. Once construction begins, certain areas may be temporarily closed, but our goal is to keep the building open throughout the project. If any closures or service relocations are needed, they will be communicated in advance. We’re committed to minimizing disruptions to students, staff, and visitors.Q: Will Tivoli close during construction?

Q: Will student services still be available?

A: Yes! All student services will remain available throughout the project. If any services need to be temporarily relocated due to construction, those changes will be communicated in advance to ensure continued access and support.

Q: How will space be allocated?

A: As part of the Tivoli Reimagined project, we plan to develop a transparent and collaborative process for space allocation. The program plan will include a strategic framework that outlines how spaces should function and which services or activities should be co-located to best serve the campus community. Any future space assignment process will be guided by this strategy to ensure the Tivoli remains a functional, accessible, and student-centered union. We encourage you to share your feedback during this planning phase—your input will help shape a space allocation process that reflects shared governance and equity.

Contact:

Got ideas? Got questions? Just want to get to know the Tivoli Reimagined team?
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re curious, excited, or ready to get involved, email us at TivoliReimagined@ahec.edu

Let’s reimagine the Tivoli—together.