Smurfit Business School to Enhance Postgraduate Facilities with New Gym

Author: Marc Matouc UCDSU Graduate Officer

I am excited to announce a significant enhancement to the postgraduate experience at the Smurfit Business School. In a pivotal meeting held recently, leaders united from various sectors of our institution, to embark on a mission to upgrade our postgraduate facilities. Alongside me, Marc Matouc, were key figures including Dominic O'Keeffe (UCD Director of Student Services), Anthony Brabazon (Smurfit College Principal and Dean of Business), Professor Federica Pazzaglia (Director of UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School and Associate Dean of UCD College of Business) and PJ Barron (Director of Campus Operations and Commercial Activities). Our collective goal was to enrich the student experience, with a particular focus on physical fitness and well-being for our Smurfit students. 

Based on the findings from a recent survey and outreach efforts I conducted, which emphasised the significance of gym facilities for our students, I underscored the increasing need for fitness amenities located conveniently on-site. 

The planned new gym facility represents the latest advancement in a series of student-focused enhancements at Smurfit. Preceding this was the successful launch of a shuttle bus service, which has greatly improved student life by facilitating convenient travel between the Blackrock and Belfield campus. 

The meeting was not only a critical step in bringing our vision to fruition, it also identified an optimal location for the gym using detailed 3D renders to visualise its potential. This facility, designed exclusively for student use and available seven days a week, reflects the University’s commitment to a holistic educational approach, where students can thrive academically and personally.

This gym will be an invaluable resource for the 257 students residing on campus and the 1,400 day students. With design development and the tendering process already underway, we aim to launch the gym by September 2024. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we proceed with this exciting project, set to significantly elevate the student experience at the Smurfit Business School. 

ENDS