The Marcus Welcome Center, Wichita State University's new 'front door,' opened in May 2005. The 29,320-square-foot center, topped by a clock tower, features a 100-seat auditorium and interactive displays to tell the history of the university through graphics and memorabilia contributed by alumni. It also houses WSU's Office of Admissions and is often used as the starting point for orientation and campus tours.

The building project was funded by private donations and mill levy money WSU receives from Wichita and Sedgwick County. The lead $1.35 million gift was given by Howard and Rose Marcus. Howard's parents, Sam and Milly Marcus, had funded the Marcus Center for Continuing Education.

The center stands on the site of the former Crestview Country Club clubhouse, which Wichita State University purchased in 1969. From 1974 until its demolition in 2000, that structure served as a continuing education center and also housed the University Club.