The Commons

In 1995, Salisbury State University introduced plans to replace the Powell Dining Hall. The new building would sit adjacent to the Guerrieri University Center, and connect via hallway. However, this space was currently occupied by the President's house. The university purchased a residence across Camden Avenue for the president to replace the original home, which was soon demolished. The cost of the new building would total $22 million, and was paid for through auxiliary funds and student fees. The building opened in 1997.

The Commons, a 100,000 square foot building, is two stories, not including its attic and basement. Like the Guerrieri Student Center, it too was built with brick, but also featured columns and a rotunda over the dining area. The building’s first floor included a food court, kitchen, gourmet buffet room, and collection of dining rooms for the students that were also available for rent by the community. One of the dining rooms had a more formal setting and was designated "the Bistro". The building’s second floor has offices for food services, as well as several more rentable dining rooms. The basement is now home to the University Bookstore and campus post office.

The Commons often hosts specialty food nights and is open to the community for dining. The bookstore and post office are also open to the public.

Bradley, Sylvia . Salisbury: From Normal School to University 1925 - 2001. Salisbury, Maryland. Salisbury University Press, 2002.