What is Common Grounds?

The beginning idea of a coffeehouse for the EMU community sprang to life in 2001. Funded by the Lilly Endowment and run largely by students, Common Grounds has become the space for our community to safely and comfortably come together on many different levels.

Formally created by the Lilly Project to stir conversation regarding integration of faith, learning, and vocation, Common Grounds has grown to be a place for students and groups across campus.

People meet for every-day conversation, as well as more in-depth discussions led by guests like chapel speakers and visiting professors. Musical, visual and theatrical artists also perform regularly for an enthusiastic audience.

EMU students had a hand in naming the coffee house, submitting suggestions like Casa Java, Cool Beans, and The Haus before Common Grounds was declared the winner.

For general inquiries and information about working at Common Grounds you can contact: Douglas Wandersee at commongrounds@emu.edu.

 

Common Grounds is located on the lower level of the old student center, now the Theater, Art, and Communications Center, next to the Student Art Gallery. (See Campus Map)