Campus address: 601 Thea Bowman Drive NE
Commonly referred to as “The Pryz,” the Edward J. Pryzbyla University Center is the main hub for student life on campus. It is home to two dining facilities, a food market, numerous student organizations, lounge space, meeting rooms, the Office of the Dean of Students, Campus Activities, Center for Cultural Engagement, International Student and Scholar Services, Office of Housing Services, Disability Support Services, the Office of Student Conduct and Ethical Development, the University's Post Office and more faculty, staff, and student services! The Pryz is also home to the Cardinal Shop, CatholicU's spirit store featuring gifts, collectables, and Catholic University spirit-wear.
The Pryz has been referred to as the living room of Catholic University. It also could be called the dining room, kitchen, and family room of the University. The main lobby provides space for student fundraisers and information tables. The fliers, posters, and oversized banners displayed in the Pryz lobby tell the story of what’s going on for students at CUA on any given day.
The Great Rooms of the Pryz are where many of the University’s biggest events are held, including conferences, major lectures, student fairs, and University parties. The biggest of all Great Room events was in 2008 when Pope Benedict XVI came to The Catholic University of America to speak to Catholic educators.
For events too big to hold inside, the patio and west lawn of the Pryz are used. Fall Festival and Cardinalpalooza are two of the many student events over the course of the school year that happen on the Pryz patio and lawn.
Many organizations outside of the University use the space and services of the Pryz for meetings and conferences throughout the year, especially during the summer months.