Highsmith University Union
Headquarters for campus activities, Highsmith University Union houses the Student Clubs and Organizations office, Student Government Association offices and the SAIL program office on the street level. The ground floor is home to the Bookstore, Rocky’s Convenience Store, a food court and art gallery. 
Gracing the lower level food court is a giant replica of the Renaissance masterpiece The School of Athens, painted by 100 students, faculty and alumni under the direction of S. Tucker Cooke, retired Art Department chair. The 40-by-37-foot mural stands as symbol of the art of learning and liberal arts synergy at UNC Asheville.
The inviting ambiance of Highsmith Union is due to its open floor plan, glass walls and skylights and, of course, the bustle of student activity. It offers a great place to meet friends and grab a bite in the spacious food court; play pool, ping-pong or foosball; join a club or organize a service project; catch a nap on a comfy sofa; or strike up a conversation.
Guest lecturers, comedians, musicians and entertainers also have a ready stage in a cozy venue in Highsmith University Union. Are you into conservation? Join ASHE, Student Environmental Action Coalition, the largest student-run, student-led environmental organization in the country. Want to go Greek? We have a half-dozen fraternities and sororities. Thinking of developing your leadership potential? Our Student Leadership Programs sponsor workshops and conferences that will bring out the best in you. Don’t leave your trumpet at home—join the Bulldog Pep Band, a great outlet for your musical talents while promoting school spirit at basketball games! Watching your weight? Take a free aerobics or pilates class in our Health & Fitness Center. Interested in pre-med? Join the Hippocrates Student Organization to meet health-care experts and gain experience that can give you a leg up on the professional-school competition. Like to dance? We’ve got a Dance Team, the Swing Club, the Bulldog Stompers cloggers and more. Care to continue your religious tradition? We have many faith groups through Campus Ministries. The list goes on! And if we don’t have the club for you, we encourage you to start your own.
We believe that involvement is the key to a successful college experience, and statistics bear this out: national studies show that students who actively participate in campus life succeed at a higher rate than students who don’t.
More Information
Highsmith University Union
UNC Asheville, CPO #1200
One University Heights
Asheville, NC 28804-8501
828.251.6990