The Building Campaign for ECE ILLINOIS
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does ECE need a new building?
A new building will consolidate the department, address critical space needs, enhance instructional and research capabilities, and help us to be more competitive in attracting top students and professors. It will also equip our incomparable faculty and students with the modern facility they need to innovate and lead.
How will donors be recognized?
Donor recognition will be determined jointly by the donor and the University. Naming opportunities exist, and all major donors will be recognized in a prominent manner.
How much will the new building cost?
The cost is currently estimated to be $90 million.
How will the new building be financed?
The State of Illinois is planning to provide $45 million toward the building, and the department is seeking private support for the balance of the funds required. In addition, foundation and federal sources of funds are being pursued. Lead donors are needed now to bring this project to realization.
Where will the new building be located?
The building will complete the north engineering campus quadrangle. Land has been reserved between the Micro and Nanotechnology Lab and the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology. The Coordinated Science Lab is just east of the site. This is an ideal location, as it places the ECE home building in proximity to other existing ECE research and
collaborative programs.
When will construction begin?
It is our goal to have all funding commitments in place by early 2009 and to begin the construction process soon after that. We are confident that our vision to build a $90 million building can be quickly realized.
Has any work been done to date on the new building?
The State of Illinois has released $3 million for the development of a building design. Through a competitive process, the campus has selected architect David King, chairman of SmithGroup, to develop designs for this signature building.
What will happen to Everitt Lab and the labs within?
William L. Everitt built the collaborative department and spirit that attracted John Bardeen to Illinois. Everitt Lab will continue to be an important building for ECE and the College of Engineering. Engineering and other classes will continue to meet there.