Expanding its commitment to equine business education and entrepreneurship, the University of Louisville College of Business will break ground October 12 on the first-ever addition to the college’s 25-year-old building.The eco-friendly, two-story, 7245 sq. ft. wing will add faculty offices, conference rooms, study areas and work space for two programs that have distinguished the college internationally.
The second floor will house the college’s Equine Industry Program (EIP), a program unique in the world because it offers an AACSB-accredited business degree with an equine major. (AACSB is the gold standard for accrediting college business programs.) The EIP draws students from around the globe. Its graduates represent the next generation of business leaders in equine broadcasting, publishing, education, facilities, racing, breeding, association management and other areas of the industry. The new space also is expected to include a new institute for equine enterprise management, expanding the equine program’s applied research and service capabilities to the industry and creating new learning opportunities for students.
The college’s Forcht Center for Entrepreneurship will occupy the first floor of the addition. The Forcht Center offers a comprehensive suite of programs and experiences that prepare students to launch new ventures and bring entrepreneurial thinking to existing corporate environments. Its programs are ranked among the best in the world.
“With this addition, which will strengthen and enhance these two signature programs, we highlight our pledge to be the best at what we do best,” said College of Business Dean Charlie Moyer. “We’re committed to growing the future of the Commonwealth’s equine industry and creating new opportunities for students. Our focus is boosting regional economic development and generating new energy for entrepreneurs and their dreams—with these improvements, we invite students to learn and then lead.”
The LEED-certified addition includes a green roof and Sky Garden that will host receptions and other special events. A combination of state funds and private donations are being sought to finance the $3.38 million project. Contributors making significant gifts will have the opportunity to name selected areas, including the entire addition.
John P. Chovan, the design consultant on the original College of Business facility, is the project architect for Arrasmith, Judd, Rapp, Chovan, Inc. Louisville general contractor F.W. Owens Co. has been awarded the construction contract. Construction is expected to begin in October, with completion in late 2011 or early 2012.
The groundbreaking will be held Tuesday, October 12, at 4:30 p.m., on the college’s west lawn, in the footprint of the new wing. Invited guests include Kentucky First Lady and horse enthusiast Jane Beshear; Churchill Downs President Kevin Flanery; President and CEO of the U.S. Equestrian Federation John Long, and Kentucky Horse Racing Commission member Ned Bonnie.
The event also will mark the launch of the college’s “Bucks for Bricks” campaign, a $5 million fund-raising effort that includes the new wing and renovation of the college’s existing offices, classrooms, conference rooms and study areas. Except for areas damaged by the 2009 flood, the building has not had a comprehensive renovation since its opening in 1985. The campaign invites donors to name classrooms and other learning spaces to commemorate individuals and their accomplishments.
Source: University of Louisville