Marshall is a public university known for its desire for discovery and innovative learning techniques, so its new cutting-edge business and innovation facility is designed to better connect students, faculty, staff, community, and industry partners in those pursuits. A gift from alumnus Brad Smith allowed the facility to support the latest in teaching, research, technology, entrepreneurship, and business ethics. Over a quarter of the building consists of modern classrooms designed for active learning and group study. Features such as ample natural light, adaptable furnishings, and state of the art technology, these multimodal spaces support both in-person and virtual learning experiences. Strategically positioned workspaces optimize natural light and productivity while fostering collaboration and student support. Situated between downtown and the university campus, the center serves as a connection between the community and academia, driving revitalization efforts.
Programmatic features include a multi-story forum space, a 360-seat lecture hall, student organization and work commons, finance and trading simulation lab with Bloomberg Terminals and the iCenter, a tech space for team ideation and project development.
“The building embodies a spirit of optimism that will expand the reach of the university beyond the campus to create a collaboration hub with the business community.”
—Jamie Butterfield, design principal