Ern Commons is located at 567 McCormick Road in between Balz-Dobie and Watson-Webb houses. Named after former Vice President for Student Affairs, Ernie Ern, the facility is able to accommodate a variety of events including dances, banquet-style dinners, and performances.

Ern Commons Map

Hours

Ern Commons is only open for reserved events. Events may take place between the hours of 9:30am - 11:30pm daily. Doors will automatically unlock at the beginning of a reservation.

Setups and AV

CIO event organizers are responsible for setting up the space for their event and returning it to the way they found it prior to leaving. AV will only be provided if requested, you will be prompted to make this request during your space reservation request.

Parking

Parking at Ern Commons is limited. Use loading dock on the back of the building for immediate loading and unloading only. If parking vehicles after loading/unloading, event organizers and their guests must utilize standard employee/student lots with appropriate parking permit and/or guest lots paying any fees required to Parking and Transportation. Cars parked in loading/unloading areas are subject to ticketing and tow at the owner’s expense. 

Available Setups & Capacities

• Total Empty Capacity: 300
• Banquet: 120 chairs, 15 tables
• Chairs in Rows: 190 chairs
• Classroom: 72 chairs, 24 tables
• Hollow Square: 52 chairs, 16 tables
• Fair: 44 chairs, 22 tables

View sample diagrams

Amenities

• 8 ft tables
• 6 ft round tables
• 190 chairs
• Podium
• Stage (8'x6' piece - 4 pieces available, stairs)
• Storage room with sink for caterers
• Outdoor reception patio entrance located near wooded area
• ADA Accessible entrance
• Access to restrooms and water fountains

Available Audio-Visual Equipment (must request in EMS)

Audio:

• Sound System
• Wireless handheld microphones and lapel microphones (can use up to 3 at once)
• Corded handheld microphones
• Bluetooth connectivity and aux input for audio only

Visual:

• Projector and screen available
• Client must provide their own laptop

Video Conferencing:

• 1 camera, must use microphones from sound system

Space Specific Policies

• CIOs MUST setup this space themselves - make sure to include enough time on reservation requests to setup and breakdown the setup
  • This excludes staging - all stages must be requested and setup by Event Management Staff
• Departments will coordinated with Event Management Services to complete the setup for them
• If A/V is requested, A/V staff will setup A/V equipment for both CIOs and Departments

Food Policy

• No restrictions on catering