Rowan University is currently renovating the Esports & Gaming Center, a place that will act as a new location for students to be able to interact with the facilities and one another, along with also being a learning space for those taking esports classes moving forward.
Its location is on Rowan Boulevard at 109 High Street right next to the park square. The building was previously operated with Nerd Street before, but now Rowan will be in complete and sole operation of the facility. This way, Rowan is able to be more involved and expand the academic opportunities along with recreational activities for students throughout the school year. The renovation for this goal started back in March of 2026, with only a few more months left before completion.
Dr. Kacey Doran, an assistant teaching professor for the esports academic programs at Rowan, expressed her joy on how the center offers students in the field and courses a space for themselves with the inclusion of two dedicated classrooms.
“I’m excited for the esports students to have a space and take ownership of it since it’s like their stadium,” said Doran. “I want them to feel comfortable and confident about what they’re learning and doing throughout their courses.”
The building itself is having a complete overhaul as they are installing more than 60 competitive gaming PCs, multiple gaming console stations, collaboration spaces, viewing and competition areas, and lastly, a broadcast studio for competition commentary. Along with equipment and designated zones, the facility is upgrading its Wi-Fi along with other hardware to keep up with fast paced matches and offer a satisfying experience.
Dr. Tom Panico, esports manager and one of the staff members in charge of the center’s renovation, hopes for the center to be a place that everyone can enjoy and take time to familiarize themselves with the esports community at Rowan, along with spending their time with the community.
“We’ve all been working very hard and renovated a lot of upgrades for online connection to the building,” said Panico. “By making sure we improve the quality of everything, I hope it can be a vibrant place for all students and for them to have that space at Rowan.”
Along with a universal student enhancement, this space also coincides with giving the Rowan esports team a place to meet, strategize, and practice their skills for upcoming competitions they may have.
Jacob Nieves, a junior radio, television & film major and Rowan’s Overwatch team captain, shared his excitement for the center since the esports teams didn’t have a formal location to play together and relied on their own equipment.
“It feels great as a player to be able to have a space since last semester the space was always closed,” said Nieves. “It also means we have a chance to get to know each other since we each have been playing at home.”
The Esports & Gaming Center is currently expected to open on Jan. 18, according to Dr. Panico, where students will be able to enter and use the facility immediately.
This new expansion to the Rowan community offers new and unique opportunities for everyone as the esports and gaming industries continue to grow globally.
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