The University of Oregon, Eugene, has unveiled its four-story, $33.6 million Cheryl Ramberg Ford and Allyn Ford Alumni Center. Funded by private gifts and state bonds, the center provides office space, welcomes visitors to campus, and tells the stories of the university and its alumni.
The center’s modern, sustainable design complements the neighboring Matthew Knight Arena and completes the new east campus gateway. It houses the University of Oregon Foundation and the university’s alumni association, student orientation services and development department.
The 60,000-square-foot facility features the Tykeson Family Hall Interpretive Center, the Randy and Susie Pape Hearth Foyer, and the 3,600-square-foot Lee Barlow Giustina Ballroom, which opens into the Donald R. Barker Courtyard. Upper floors include the Suzanne Schoenfeldt Fields Library, public areas, meeting rooms and offices.
The facility is designed to welcome everyone: It features accessible parking and a staffed information desk. Six 14-foot-high panels with touch-sensitive displays inform and inspire visitors with more than 1,000 stories told through words, images and video. These stories are updated constantly, and the entire system is integrated with a dynamic 3-D mapping feature that can be changed as the university grows and evolves.
The university anticipates receiving LEED gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Built with sustainable materials, the building is designed for energy efficiency and low environmental impact.
Opsis Architecture (Portland) is the executive architect and interior architect. TVA Architects (Portland) is the building architect.
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About the University of Oregon's Cheryl Ramberg Ford and Allyn Ford Alumni Center opening
