Western Kentucky University recently celebrated a milestone in the construction of its new Gordon Ford College of Business.
University officials gathered with members of the construction and design teams to host a “topping-off ceremony.”
During the ceremony, crews raised the building’s final steel beam into place.
Designing Modern Facilities
The building, which broke ground on June 14, 2023, is 113,000-square-feet.
Designed by Gensler, the facility will serve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence.
“The new, state-of-the-art Gordon Ford College of Business is set to not only meet the increased need for professional business education but to truly revolutionize business instruction at WKU — transforming the way we teach; the way we support young people; and the way we prepare them for careers,” said WKU President, Timothy C. Caboni.
In true Hilltopper fashion, the final beam was coated red.
Attendees were encouraged to sign the beam and “leave their mark” before it was raised.
“Meticulous planning, logistics, and skilled craftsmanship are essential for a project of this scale,” said Brian Howard, Senior Project Executive at Messer Construction. “With 1,479 cubic yards of concrete poured, 60 tons of steel placed, and a crane maneuvering material to the 30 craft professionals onsite on any given day, all that work has happened safely, with no accidents or injuries.”
Meeting Student Needs
Designed to meet the evolving needs of students and faculty, the building will feature modern amenities, advanced technology, and spaces conducive to active learning and research.
You can read more about the future of Gordon Ford College of Business, here.
The project was made possible by the Kentucky General Assembly.
In April 2022, as part of House Bill 1, legislators approved funding for a new Gordon Ford College of Business.
The project received $74.4 million from the state in the 2022-24 budget.
“The Gordon Ford College of Business prides itself on not only preparing students academically for life beyond the Hill but also preparing them professionally,” said Dr. Evelyn Thrasher, Interim Dean. “Flexible study areas and collaborative rooms will reshape student interactions with peers, faculty, staff, and alumni. We look forward to how this building will support our mission to provide students with the foundations and skills to lead in today’s diverse business environment.”
Legislators who attended the ceremony included Senate Majority Whip Mike Wilson, Senator Max Wise, Representative Michael Meredith, Representative Shawn McPherson and Representative Kevin Jackson.
Also in attendance were Hunter Whittaker, Field Representative for United States Senator Mitch McConnell, and Mark Lord, District Director for United States Representative Brett Guthrie.
The project is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2025.
For more information, visit wku.edu/businesscollege.
