Inspired by her family to pursue higher education, Arizona State University transfer student Nora Thompson decided to begin her studies at Pima Community College to better prepare for the academic realities of attending a university.

• Read more about Supporting transfer students on their journey to ASU

It was once a place where people cleared out after work, where most restaurants closed by 3 p.m., where only the occasional sports game or First Fridays art walk drew a younger crowd.

Now Arizona State University students live and learn on the Downtown Phoenix campus, bringing an energy and presence that have helped inject new life into the area.

• Read more about Downtown Phoenix campus turns 15

Crime and Justice News, a daily digest of original reporting of criminal justice news and an aggregated summary of such news from media reports, government agencies and interest groups, is now based at Arizona State University.

• Read more about Respected criminal justice news source 'Crime and Justice News' now based at ASU

• Read more about Public Service Academy graduate beat overwhelming obstacles

• Read more about Downtown Phoenix campus opens doors to excitement

• Read more about ASU Open Door shakes up Downtown Phoenix campus

• Read more about Crutchfield takes over as student media director

• Read more about Cronkite School excels in national competitions

• Read more about Lecture series covers political, social, cultural issues

• Read more about ASU Downtown hosts March 1 Open Door event