The University of Tennessee Knoxville (UT) has marked the start of construction for a new facility to the Haslam College of Business in Knoxville, US.
The Haslam College of Business expansion project aims to accommodate the college's increasing enrolment and enhance its educational offerings.
According to UT, enrolment figures have soared, with undergraduate numbers doubling over ten years and master's programme participation increasing by 35% in five years.
Set to open its doors in late 2027, the new building will also address the rising demand in graduate and executive education programmes.
The structure is designed to support a weekly influx of more than 10,000 individuals, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
UT chancellor Donde Plowman said: “This new building is a part of a physical transformation happening across campus - a transformation that reflects the progress we’re seeing across our university.”
The 243,800ft² edifice will feature five floors that include 18 classrooms, three research labs, two auditoriums with a capacity of 300 seats each, meeting spaces, offices, and communal areas.
UT senior vice-chancellor for advancement Brian Broyles highlighted the financial framework of the $227m project.
With 55% of funding sourced from state and university contributions, alumni donations are crucial for financing the remainder, he noted.
Broyles said: “With the philanthropic support of alumni and friends, we can provide enriching experiences and opportunities. Our goal is to raise $100m for the capital project to make this vision a reality.”
Knoxville's McCarty Holsaple McCarty Architects and Robert A.M. Stern Architects from New York led the architectural planning alongside various engineering companies. The design phase incorporated feedback from faculty, staff, and students.
Construction is underway at the site positioned across Volunteer Boulevard from the current Haslam Business Building and Stokely Management Center. This area was formerly home to Dunford, Greve, and Henson Halls.
Post-expansion, business school operations and classes will continue to utilise the existing Haslam Business Building.
