Knoxville to Welcome New Business Education Building at UT
Knoxville, TN – The University of Tennessee has officially broken ground on a significant new project, the Haslam College of Business building. This state-of-the-art facility is estimated to cost around $227 million and aims to enhance the educational experience for students at the university. The new building will rise on the corner of Volunteer Boulevard and Cumberland Avenue, right at the main entrance of the campus, making it a highly visible landmark.
Demolition Paves the Way for New Construction
The construction process kicked off with the demolition of several older buildings, including Dunford, Greve, and Henson halls. This work began in May 2024, making way for a facility that is set to open its doors in fall 2027. The new building is designed with a capacity to serve freshman and sophomore students efficiently, while the existing Haslam building will cater to the needs of juniors and seniors.
Exciting Features of the New Building
In total, the new Haslam College of Business building will cover an impressive 243,800 square feet across five floors. The layout will include:
- Eighteen classrooms, featuring two auditoriums, each accommodating up to 300 students.
- A new home for the college’s seven academic departments along with the Anderson Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research.
- Meeting spaces, food service options, offices, and common areas to foster a collaborative environment.
- Three research laboratories to support hands-on learning and innovation.
Plans and Expectations
The university anticipates that this new facility will help to further develop and promote the college’s programs. Since 2013, enrollment in the Haslam College of Business has doubled, indicating a growing interest in the programs offered. Chancellor Donde Plowman remarked that the site chosen for the new building is ideal for a large and visually appealing structure.
Assistant Dean Betsy Adams expressed enthusiasm about the building’s location and design, highlighting its potential to serve as a welcoming entrance to the university. She indicated that the presence of big trees in the area will enhance the aesthetics and overall atmosphere.
A Collaboration for Growth
During the groundbreaking event, speakers included Plowman, UT System President Randy Boyd, and Jim Haslam, the namesake of the college. They emphasized the importance of the new building in enhancing the academic experience for both current and future students. The facility is expected to attract talented prospective students looking to join the nationally ranked programs at the Haslam College of Business.
Conclusion
As the University of Tennessee sets its sights on a bright future with the new Haslam College of Business building, the local community eagerly awaits the transformation of the campus. With an emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and growth, this project will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape for years to come.
