After visiting other union buildings, the CUB staff decided it was time to create an environment that exuded more school pride.

The CUB underwent several renovations and upgrades over the summer to create a stronger WSU identity, said CUB Director Sean Greene.

Sean Greene said he received multiple complaints from students addressing the color scheme of the building and the fact that the CUB felt like an airport. The airport appearance created an uninviting and cold atmosphere, he said, and the Oregon-green walls with yellow and orange accents left something to be desired. 

The renovations are an ongoing project part of the CUB’s yearly budget. The name “Cougarfication” came from CUB Senior Associate Director Karee Shaw. She wanted to incorporate the idea of “cougarfying” the CUB to be an iconic WSU symbol.

The most notable changes include the new chairs and ottomans in the lair. The carpet has also been replaced throughout the building, and is now crimson and grey striped.

Many students, including Katee Culbertson, a junior and a CUB staff member, are fond of the new mural in Room 310.

“The mural adds more WSU color and pride to the 3rd floor, which is home to important WSU groups such as the SEB and ASWSU,” Culbertson said.

The mural covers both walls of this meeting room and was painted by artist John Osgood. Osgood is a WSU alumnus and a contemporary painter, muralist and illustrator who grew up in Edmonds, Washington.

One side of the painting contains space for two whiteboards inside of a thinking bubble. The other side contains a representation of iconic WSU landmarks, including “The Reader” statue on the Glenn Terrell Mall, the Terrell Library glass roof, and the Bryan Hall clock tower.

The biggest future project is replacing the green panels that can be seen on every floor, Greene said. This is a more extensive project because the tiles are hand cut and expensive. 

Overall, Greene said the reaction from faculty and students has been positive and appreciative. The next room to be finished is a lower level meeting room, L43, which should be done by the end of September with its updated international theme.