(photos courtesy of Tasia Williams, SAMAC intern)

by Tasia Williams

Blazers excitedly flocked for their coffees and refreshers at the Mervyn H. Sterne Library as they commemorated the grand reopening of its Starbucks location. Closed since December 2021, the reopening coincides with the start of fall classes. The location offers convenience and a new study hangout for students while enjoying their favorites from the Starbucks menu.

Campus Dining employees also added to the excitement during the event by hosting a cup decorating contest and giveaway.

"We set up this table to incorporate a mental health and wellness aspect to the event. This is our goal for every event," said Justin Marshall, UAB Campus Dining's marketing director.

The first 25 students who decorated classic Starbucks paper cups with markers, paint, and colored pencils received a free, reusable Starbucks cup. Students also had the option to enter their cups into a contest for the most creative design. The winning cups will be posted to the Campus Dining Instagram page.

With this reopening, the Sterne Library location will mirror the operating hours of the Hill Student Center location and will also feature fun promotions like Drink of the Week, Frappe Hour and Faculty Fridays.