You’ve probably seen it driving along Alameda Avenue in Lakewood. It’s that sharp, modern building that sits as a bit of a crown jewel on the CCU campus. But if you think the Colorado Christian University event center—officially known as the Anschutz Student Center—is just a place where students grab a mediocre sandwich between classes, you’re missing the bigger picture. It’s actually the pulse of the whole university.
The building itself is roughly 55,000 square feet of high-energy space. Honestly, it changed everything for the Cougars when it opened back in 2017. Before this, things felt a little scattered. Now? It’s the literal and figurative heart of the campus. It’s where the community actually happens.
The Court Where the Magic Happens
The centerpiece of the Colorado Christian University event center is the Event Center gym. This isn’t your neighborhood YMCA. We’re talking about a NCAA Division II regulation hardwood floor that hosts some of the most intense Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) matchups you’ll see in the state.
The atmosphere? Electric.
When the bleachers are packed with the "Blue Crew," the noise level is honestly deafening. It’s a tight, intimate space, which means fans are basically right on top of the action. This gives CCU a massive home-court advantage. You’ve got the men’s and women’s basketball teams tearing it up, alongside the volleyball squad. But it’s not just for the athletes. The university uses this massive floor for "The Dash," their chapel services, and major keynote speakers. Imagine 1,000-plus people in one room, all focused on a single message. It’s powerful.
The lighting is crisp. The acoustics are surprisingly good for a room designed for bouncing balls. Most people don't realize that the floor is a specific grade of maple designed to reduce impact on athletes' joints. It’s those little details that show CCU wasn’t just building a room; they were building a high-performance environment.
More Than Just Sports
Step outside the gym area and you’re in the Great Hall. It’s huge. It has these massive floor-to-ceiling windows that let in that famous Colorado sunshine, making the whole place feel twice as big as it actually is.
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If you’re visiting, you’ll likely end up at the Cougar Den. It’s the main dining area, but it feels more like a high-end food hall than a "cafeteria." They’ve got everything from standard grill fare to more health-conscious options, which is a far cry from the mystery meat stories your parents probably told you about their college days.
- The Hangout Spots: There are fireplace lounges where you’ll see students buried in Greek textbooks or arguing about theology.
- The Student Life Office: This is the brain center for all the clubs and activities that happen on campus.
- The Fitness Center: Upstairs, there’s a workout facility that looks out over the campus. It’s got all the cardio and strength equipment you’d expect, but with a better view than your local Gold’s Gym.
It’s kind of a "one-stop shop" for the student experience. You eat there. You workout there. You cheer for your friends there. You might even have a minor existential crisis over a philosophy paper there. It’s all part of the deal.
Why This Building Matters for Lakewood
The Colorado Christian University event center isn't an island. It’s a major asset for the Lakewood community. Throughout the year, the university opens its doors for various camps, local high school events, and even some regional conferences.
It’s a bridge.
Often, private universities can feel like gated communities. CCU’s approach with the event center feels different. It’s an invitation. When a local high schooler plays a tournament on that floor, they aren't just playing a game; they’re experiencing what a faith-based higher education environment looks like. It’s a recruiting tool, sure, but it’s also a service to the neighborhood.
The architecture itself, designed by the folks at Davis Partnership Architects, was intentional. They wanted something that felt modern but didn't look like a spaceship landed in the middle of a residential area. The use of stone and glass helps it blend into the Colorado landscape while still making a statement.
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The Technical Side of Things
For those who care about the "nerdy" details, the building was a massive undertaking. It was part of a larger $120 million campus redevelopment plan. The goal was to consolidate student services that were previously spread across multiple buildings—some of which were, frankly, getting a bit long in the tooth.
The HVAC system is top-tier. That sounds boring until you’re in a room with 800 sweaty basketball fans and you realize you aren't actually overheating. The sound system in the gym is also integrated with the university’s broadcasting suite, allowing for high-quality livestreams of games. If you can’t make it to Lakewood, the digital experience is surprisingly professional.
The building also houses the university’s mailroom and various student government offices. It’s the "back office" of student life, hidden behind the flashy gym floors and the sleek dining areas.
What Most People Miss
People think of the Colorado Christian University event center as a physical place. Really, it’s a cultural shift. Before the Anschutz Student Center was built, CCU lacked a "living room." Students would go to class and then leave. Now, they stay.
They linger.
That "lingering" is where the real education happens. It’s the conversations that happen after the chapel service ends or the post-game analysis over a burger at the Cougar Den. You can’t quantify that in a brochure, but you can feel it when you walk through the doors.
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It’s also worth noting that the building was named after the Anschutz Foundation, a name synonymous with Colorado philanthropy. Their contribution was pivotal. It highlights the school’s deep ties to the regional business and philanthropic community.
Things to Know Before You Go
If you’re planning to head over for a game or an event, here’s the deal:
- Parking can be tricky. During big rivalry games, the lots fill up fast. Give yourself an extra 15 minutes to find a spot in the perimeter lots and walk in.
- The atmosphere is "Christian University" intense. That means it’s high energy, very loud, but generally very respectful. Don’t expect the kind of heckling you might hear at a pro game.
- Check the schedule. The event center is a multi-use facility. One day it’s a basketball court; the next it’s set up with chairs for a national speaker. Always check the CCU Athletics website or the university master calendar before showing up.
- Security is present. Since it’s a private campus, they keep a close eye on things. It feels very safe, which is a huge plus for families bringing kids to games.
The Colorado Christian University event center is a testament to the school's growth. CCU has moved from a small, local college to a major player in the Christian higher education space. This building is the physical evidence of that ambition.
Actionable Steps for Visitors
If you want to experience the Colorado Christian University event center properly, don't just walk in and out. Here is how to actually engage with the space:
- Attend a "Home Opener": The energy during the first basketball or volleyball game of the season is unmatched. It’s the best way to see the building in its intended glory.
- Visit the Cougar Den during the "Off-Peak": If you want to see the "studious" side of CCU, go around 2:00 PM on a Tuesday. The vibe is chill, the coffee is hot, and you can really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.
- Look for Public Lectures: CCU often hosts speakers on ethics, politics, and theology that are open to the public. These are usually held in the event center and offer a great way to engage with the university’s intellectual life.
- Contact Event Services: If you’re part of a local organization, reach out to their facilities team. While it’s primarily for students, they do occasionally rent out spaces for external groups that align with their mission.
The center isn't just a gym. It's not just a cafeteria. It is the heartbeat of a community that is trying to integrate faith with every aspect of life, from the three-point line to the dining table. Next time you're in Lakewood, stop by. You'll see exactly what I mean.