Named for the late Anthony Keith Hinds, former dean and professor of mathematics at WCU, the University Center (UC) is the hub of student social life on campus. Constructed for $1.4 million, the UC was originally dedicated on May 1968 and renovated in 1997. The newly completed $5.3 million expansion adds another 34,000 square feet of space, and opened in January 2003.

The UC features a two-story atrium, meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, a 170-seat movie theater, club Illusions, retail space, an expanded food court, and the student mailroom. The additional space also includes the Multicultural Center and Women's Center, as well as the Center for Student Involvement with offices, workspace, and conference rooms for clubs and organizations.

The University Center is a non-smoking facility, and as of July 1, 2008, no smoking is allowed within 50 feet of any WCU structure per University Policy #45.