You are here: American University Student Affairs Mary Graydon Student Center

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Welcome to the
Mary Graydon Student Center!

The Mary Graydon Student Center (MGSC) is the vibrant hub of student life at American University—a dynamic gathering space where connection, collaboration, and community come to life. Home to the Student Engagement Commons, MGSC brings together key student-facing offices dedicated to involvement, leadership, and belonging.

Whether you're grabbing a meal at the Terrace Dining Room, meeting with student clubs and Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs), or stopping by one of our many lounges and resource spaces, MGSC has something for everyone. The center also includes commuter-friendly amenities like dedicated showers, as well as flexible gathering spaces for programs, studying, and socializing.

More than just a building, MGSC is where Eagles gather, ideas are launched, and traditions are built. Come explore, connect, and make it your own!

Questions about the the student center? Email [email protected]


Business Hours

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Mary Graydon Student Center
Open Daily 6:00 AM - Midnight
AU One Card required for entry after midnight. 
 ☕ 
The Bridge Café
Mon–Thu 7:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Fri    7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Sat      Closed
Sun    10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
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MGSC 1st Fl Info Desk
Mon–Thu 8:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Fri–Sat   8:30 AM - Midnight
Sun     9:00 AM - 11:00 PM
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MGSC 3rd Fl Info Desk
Mon–Sat 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sun    12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Take a Break

Take a moment to relax, recharge, and connect. The Student Center offers spaces and activities where you can study, socialize, unwind, and make the most of your time on campus. Explore:

  • 🛋️ Student Center Spaces — Discover lounges, gathering areas, meeting spaces, and places to connect with friends or get work done.
  • 🎮 Gaming Zone — Play, compete, and take a break with gaming, recreation, and entertainment options.
  • 📸 Campus Life & Events — See what's happening in the Student Center and stay connected with campus activities.
Aviary Student Lounge

Student Center Spaces

Whether you're looking for a place to study, meet, eat, or unwind, the Student Center offers spaces that support campus life throughout the day. 

Explore Our Spaces →

Grab a Bite

Whether you need your morning coffee, a quick snack between classes, or a place to meet with friends, the Student Center offers convenient dining options throughout the day. Explore:

  • The Bridge Café — Enjoy coffee, espresso beverages, pastries, and light refreshments from this student-run campus café.
  • 🍽️ Food & Dining — Find dining locations, menus, and current hours for Student Center food options.
  • 🕒 Dining Hours — Check the latest hours of operation before you visit.
The Bridge Cafe Coffee with a chocolate covered strawberry

The Bridge Café

Grab coffee, tea, pastries, and more at this student-run café in Butler Pavilion. The Bridge Café also provides beverage service for campus meetings and events.

TDR Fruit

Food & Dining

Whether you're grabbing breakfast, meeting friends, or taking a break between classes, find current dining hours and availability.

Explore Dining Hours →

Get Event Help

Planning a meeting, program, or campus event? University Event Scheduling helps students, faculty, and staff navigate reservations, scheduling tools, and event planning resources. Explore:

  • 📅 University Event Scheduling (UES) — Learn how to reserve space and plan successful campus events.
  • 💻 EMS WebApp Help — Get assistance with submitting requests, managing reservations, and using EMS.
  • 📚 Event Planning Resources — Access guides, policies, timelines, and helpful tools for hosting events.
Collage of event photos - student in a Holli festival, Jane Gooddall, students in traditional Mexican clothing dancing, and students sitting on the quad

University Event Scheduling

Your starting point for reserving space, planning events, accessing EMS resources, and navigating campus scheduling.

Explore UES

EMS Icon with letter i in front

EMS WebApp Help

Find guides, training, and support for using EMS WebApp to browse spaces, request reservations, manage bookings, and more.

EMS WebApp Help