Investing in UNI's iconic spaces
Investing in UNI's iconic spaces
A proud past, a bold future
Cultivated across almost 150 years, UNI’s culture is deeply rooted in the spaces we share. These places represent UNI and welcome students and visitors to the Panther community, bring the campus and community together, and sustain the vitality of our university, as well as our region and state.
As part of the Our Tomorrow campaign, $44.2 million has been given in support of UNI’s iconic spaces, in addition to two new spaces to carry the Panther legacy into the future.
“These historic investments in the spaces that unite the Panther family are laying the foundation for a new generation of UNI students to connect with our university’s rich history through shared experiences and traditions. Enhancing our iconic spaces and creating new legacy spaces reflect UNI’s ever-evolving story,” said UNI President Mark Nook.
Industry crafted: Applied Engineering Buildling
The home for UNI’s Departments of Applied Engineering and Construction Management received a makeover with the completion of a two-phase renovation. More than $3 million in private donations from industry partners, UNI alumni and friends is supplementing $40.5 million in state funding for the project. The university is fundraising $1 million in support to help equip the lab and instruction spaces.
The Applied Engineering Building expanded by 40,000 square feet and now features state-of-the-art laboratory and collaborative learning spaces to support programs in engineering, graphic technology, construction management and technology education. Approximately 60,000 square feet of existing space has been renovated. The facility itself is a learning tool, featuring open-concept ceilings with visible pipes and electrical chases.
The facility will support several new engineering degrees launched in 2024: mechanical engineering technology, materials science and engineering, and materials science engineering technology. Department leadership said the project will catalyze enrollment growth, with projections of a 75% increase by 2028.
“Commercial contractors rely heavily upon the coveted construction management major at UNI for hiring and growing their businesses,” said Chad Kleppe, president and CEO of Master Builders of Iowa. “We are all competing for talent, and this state-of-the-art facility is a game-changer for the future of the construction management program and its students.”
Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center nears next chapter
The curtain has risen on the Gallagher Bluedorn’s renovation and expansion project, just in time for the center’s 25th anniversary season beginning in the fall of 2025. Audiences this spring are seeing a preview of the revitalized amenities that now match the quality of performances they’ve come to expect from one of the Cedar Valley’s most beloved arts destinations.
The $15 million project created two new lounges, concessions counters and state-of-the-art guest services throughout the performing arts center. Patrons have already enjoyed seating upgrades on the orchestra level of the Catherine Cassidy Gallagher Great Hall. The 25th anniversary celebration in the renovated space will be held Sunday, Nov. 2.
University sets sights on Campanile Plaza upgrades
After completing a comprehensive upgrade of the carillon instrument — made possible by over 700 alumni and friends who gave to the project — the university now sets its sights on the Campanile Plaza portion of the renovation of this campus icon.
The UNI Foundation Board of Trustees has committed up to $500,000 from its Vision Fund for the project, which will revitalize aging landscaping, create memorials to Campanile history, recognize donors and enable greater enjoyment of the space for generations to come. The project will take place over the summer of 2025 and is expected to be dedicated as a part of UNI’s sesquicentennial festivities in 2025-2026.
Court Sports Training Facility to reshape UNI
Construction is set to begin in August on a court sports training facility for the men’s and women’s basketball programs as well as the volleyball team. The facility will meet the existing and future needs of three of UNI’s most visible and successful Missouri Valley Conference athletic programs, providing practice courts and support areas.
“Several UNI alums and donors stepped forward expressing interest in providing financial support for a court sports training facility. Enthusiasm and commitments for this initiative have enabled us to proceed with the project.” said Mark Nook, UNI president.
Taking the Panther Train to the Next Level
The Young Family Foundation of Waterloo announced a lead gift of $400,000 toward a new training facility for UNI’s storied wrestling program. The university has engaged architects to develop plans for a facility to replace the former wrestling space in the West Gym. Plans include features such as weight and cardio training spaces, multiple wrestling mats, locker rooms and office space as well as a rehabilitation room and training room.
UNI-Dome modernization completes phase one, moves on to phase two
The $11 million phase one of the UNI-Dome renovation project was completed over the summer of 2024 with the replacement of the aging fabric roof. Helicopters hovered over the iconic stadium, depositing equipment for construction crews and sections of fabric, composed of Teflon-coated fiberglass, specially designed for the UNI-Dome. The Van G. Miller Family Charitable Foundation Football Team Meeting Room was also completed in phase one.
Phase two of the project will elevate the fan experience through a comprehensive reseating of the UNI-Dome that includes upgraded chair backs and premium seating options. An expanded suite level will create an exclusive experience and bring in more revenue to support Panther Athletics. Improved accessibility and restroom upgrades are also included in the second phase. The project is set to begin this spring.
