About Us | WTAMU

Mission Statement

The Jack B. Kelley Student Center is the gathering place for the entire West Texas A&M University community. We are dedicated to providing a premiere facility that inspires educational growth, social engagement and intellectual development through student-centered programs and services.

History of the JBK

Originally built in 1967, the JBK was first known as the Administration Building. Then in 1989, it underwent a major facelift in both appearance and personality. The building became the Jack B. Kelley Student Center after a generous endowment contribution in memory of former Amarillo businessman Jack B. Kelley. The JBK is the center of student activity at West Texas A&M University and is known as "The Living Room" for our Buff Family.

Construction for the expansion of the JBK began in 2011 and was completed in December 2012. The addition to the JBK includes additional meeting spaces, Legacy Hall (a multi-purpose room capable of seating 500-banquet style and 700 theatre style), a catering kitchen, a First-Year Experience office suite, a Buff Tech store, and restrooms on both floors.

The JBK Student Center underwent another significant change in 2016. After a massive hail storm damaged the roof, the Student Center was thrust into another renovation project. During the renovation, the Food Court was converted to open concept, new terrazzo and carpet flooring was installed, and new furnishings were installed throughout.

During the summer of 2018, a huge video wall was added to the commons.

In early 2020, the EBuff Tech Store was moved into the Bookstore to make way for the new Nathaniel and Helen Neal Multicultural Suite. Though it most obviously serves as a space for students to work, it also serves as a historic marker of the Neal family legacy at WT that began over 60 years ago.

Our Team

Shawn Fouts, Ed.D., Senior Director of Campus Community

Chari Hill, Assistant Director of the JBK

Andrew Mangum, Production Services Manager

Position Vacant, Event Services Manager

Position Vacant, JBK Operations Coordinator

We couldn't run the department without our fantastic Student Building Managers, Operation Crew, Audio Visual Technicians, Event Services Assistants, Event Managers and Student Accountant.

We work hard to be a resource for our students and the entire WTAMU community; whether through event planning or just a place to relax. We at the JBK take great pride in knowing we are the heart of the University and strive for greatness in every endeavor. Our team is always looking for new ways to improve, so if you have any comments or concerns please fill out our facility questionnaire linked below.

Help Us Improve

The Role of the Student Center

The student center advances a sense of community for students, faculty, staff, alumni and guests. We bolster the educational mission of the institution and the development of students as lifelong learners by delivering an array of cultural, educational, social, and recreational programs, services, and facilities.

By any form or name, we serve as the heart of the campus community
and create a welcoming environment by:

1. Operating as a student-centered organization that engages in shared decision making
and holistic development through employment and involvement.

2. Fostering respect and affirming the identities of all individuals.

3. Educating students in leadership and social responsibility and
offering firsthand experiences in global citizenship.

4.Providing gathering spaces to encourage formal and informal community interactions
that build meaningful relationships.

Traditionally considered the living room, the student center enhances the student experience
and cultivates an enduring connection to the institution.

Member of ACUI- Association for College Unions International

Our Goals

1.To expand the overall usage of the Jack B. Kelley Student Center by students, departments, and community groups.

2.To instill in professional and student staff the philosophy of a student-oriented and professionally managed facility.

3.To maintain a facility that is clean and in an excellent state of repair; through constant supervision and planning, in order to provide an area in which quality programs and services for students can be accommodated.

4.To build and cultivate relationships among our fellow constituents.

Helps Us Accomplish Our Goals