January 6, 2025  3:20 a.m.

Umpqua Community College has completed the first phase of student housing renovations on Southeast Jackson Street in downtown Roseburg.
A UCC release said twenty-nine students have moved into new accommodations, located in the former Newberry’s department store. The building had been the offices of Redeemer’s Fellowship for over two decades.

Executive Director of Communications & Marketing for the college, Suzi Pritchard, said the development of student housing in downtown Roseburg is a key component of the school’s strategic plan to expand programming while providing students with accessible living spaces. Pritchard said the initiative also aims to enhance the region’s economic and cultural vibrancy.

UCC President Dr. Rachel Pokrandt said, “We are proud to play a role in the revitalization of downtown Roseburg while supporting the college’s growth and the community’s success”. Pokrandt said, “Our students love living in the heart of our community and the community loves them in return”.

The release said currently more than 180 students live in UCC housing across multiple buildings in Roseburg. Since 2023, UCC has acquired over 62,000 square feet of downtown property. That includes the former Newberry’s building which is now known as Hawk’s Hideaway, Hawk’s Nest, which is the former Flegel Center, and the former Post Office building, which has yet to be developed.

These acquisitions and renovations have been completed without incurring debt. Pritchard said by repurposing existing buildings, UCC is reducing costs for the community while contributing to downtown Roseburg’s economic vitality and ongoing development.
Pictures of the new student housing are posted with this story at www.541radio.com