Syracuse University picks architect to design facility for veterans

Syracuse University in Syracuse, N.Y., has selected an architectural firm to design a campus facility that will serve military veterans and their families.

SHoP Architects, headquartered in New York City, will devise plans for the National Veterans Resource Complex (NVRC).

The university says the NVRC will offer vocational and educational programs designed to advance the economic success of the region’s and the nation’s veterans and military families. It will house the university’s Institute for Veterans and Military Families, which has served more than 48,000 veterans and military families.

The complex will have classroom spaces to accommodate veteran-focused programming. It will also house a conference center and a 1,000-seat auditorium that will be available for use by the whole campus. The conference center and auditorium will host community activities, lectures and national events and conferences.

“Today represents another significant step in our efforts to be the best place in America for veterans,” says Chancellor Kent Syverud. “The NVRC is a physical testament to Syracuse University’s commitment to supporting veterans and their families throughout our history, and into our future."

Plans call for the NVRC to house the Syracuse University and Regional Student Veteran Resource Center; the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps; the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs “Vet-Success on Campus”; the National Center of Excellence for Veteran Business Ownership; Veteran Business Outreach Center and Accelerator; and Syracuse University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs.

The NVRC is tentatively scheduled for completion in spring 2019.

SHoP was selected through a design competition that began in December 2015.