Western Kentucky University celebrated a significant milestone in the construction of the new Gordon Ford College of Business building on Thursday. University officials gathered with members of the construction and design teams to host a topping-off ceremony and raise the facility’s final steel beam into place.

Speaking at the ceremony, WKU President Timothy C. Caboni emphasized WKU's dedication to serving as a leader in business education. “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,” President Caboni said.

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.

Brian Howard, Senior Project Executive at Messer Construction, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work on the project and praised the workers’ dedication. “Meticulous planning, logistics, and skilled craftsmanship are essential for a project of this scale,” he said. “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.”

Designed by Gensler, the new building, which spans an impressive 113,000 square feet, will serve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and academic excellence. Designed to meet the evolving needs of students and faculty, it will feature modern amenities, advanced technology, and spaces conducive to active learning and research.

“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.”

The project is made possible by the Kentucky General Assembly. As part of House Bill 1, in April 2022, legislators approved funding for a new Gordon Ford College of Business, providing $74.4 million from the state in the 2022-24 budget. Legislators attending Thursday’s 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.

WKU broke ground on the facility on June 14, 2023. At the groundbreaking ceremony, President Caboni noted the significant role the building will play in enhancing business education at the university. “I have often said that a great college of business needs a great place in which to do business. This new facility is that great place and will enrich business instruction and our university in a number of important ways.”

The project is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2025. View the latest renderings and schematic designs at www.wku.edu/businesscollege

Contact: Jace Lux, (270) 745-4295

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