Hughes-Trigg Student Center

“A love story? Right here in a student center?” You might ask, eyebrows raised. And you’d be right, the Hughes-Trigg Student Center, affectionately known as HTSC, holds more than just textbooks and coffee dates. This bustling hub, right in the heart of SMU’s campus, was born from a love story for the ages. It all started with a generous $10 million gift from alumni Charles and Katharine Hughes-Trigg. This power couple, their love story woven into the fabric of SMU, met right on this very spot, decades before the center existed. The Hughes-Trigg Student Center officially opened its doors in 1987, a testament to lasting love and student spirit. Today, the Hughes-Trigg Student Center buzzes with activity from 7:30 am to 10 pm, Monday through Friday. Weekends are a little more relaxed, with doors open from 9 am to 6 pm. This place isn’t just a building. It’s the lifeblood of SMU, a 112,000-square-foot monument to student life. You’ll find everything here, from cozy study nooks and meeting rooms bustling with student organizations to the mouthwatering aroma of Panera Bread wafting through the air. Want a taste of Dallas? Head to the Mane Course for a delicious Cinco Taco. But the Hughes-Trigg Student Center is more than just food and study sessions. It’s a symbol of the Hughes-Trigg’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, connected community at SMU. So, next time you’re here, grabbing a coffee or catching up with friends, remember the love story that built this place. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest love stories start right here on campus.