Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks New Era for the Naveen Jindal School of Management at UT Dallas

On October 8, 2023, a significant milestone was reached for the University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) as leaders, supporters, students, and alumni gathered to break ground on a new addition to the Naveen Jindal School of Management. This $98 million, three-story, 125,000-square-foot facility is set to enhance the educational experience for thousands of students and faculty, further solidifying the school’s reputation as a leader in business education.

A Vision for Growth

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by a distinguished group of individuals, including Dr. Hasan Pirkul, the dean of the Naveen Jindal School of Management; UT Dallas President Richard C. Benson; and UT System Regent Christina Melton Crain. The event also featured the school mascot, Temoc, and several notable alumni and supporters, including Charles “Chuck” Davidson MS’80. Their presence underscored the collective commitment to the growth and development of the Jindal School.

Dr. Pirkul expressed the excitement surrounding the new building, highlighting the current challenges faced by the school due to limited space. “Our existing buildings house 51 classrooms, five computer labs, a dining hall, and a 350-seat auditorium, and these buildings are home to nearly 11,000 students,” he noted. The new facility will alleviate some of these pressures, providing much-needed space for faculty, staff, and students.

Features of the New Facility

The new addition will house a variety of programs and resources designed to enhance the educational experience at the Jindal School. Key features include:

• Undergraduate and Executive Education Programs: The new building will serve as a hub for both undergraduate and executive education, catering to a diverse range of students and professionals seeking to advance their careers.

• Business Communications Program: This program will be housed in the new facility, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in the business world.

• Artificial Intelligence Lab: As technology continues to evolve, the inclusion of a dedicated AI lab will provide students with hands-on experience in one of the most critical fields of study today.

• Starbucks: A familiar name in the world of coffee, the addition of a Starbucks will offer students a convenient place to grab a drink and study, fostering a vibrant campus atmosphere.

• Dean’s Offices: The new building will also be the new home for the dean’s offices, further centralizing leadership and administrative functions within the school.

A Legacy of Growth

The Naveen Jindal School of Management has a rich history, having been founded in 1975. The school opened its first dedicated building in 2003, followed by a four-story addition in 2014. The upcoming facility will be the third building dedicated to the Jindal School, located adjacent to the first addition on the east side. This continued expansion reflects the school’s commitment to providing a top-tier education and adapting to the needs of its growing student body.

UT System Regent Christina Melton Crain praised the “electric growth” at UT Dallas, emphasizing the importance of new institutional spaces for fostering innovation. “With the completion of this new addition, generations of students will have a robust and productive experience in the Jindal School of Management and all that it offers,” she stated.

Student Perspectives

The impact of the new building extends beyond faculty and administration; students are also eager to see the changes. Debopreeta Bhattacharya, a sociology senior and vice president of Student Government, shared her positive experiences at the Jindal School. “I have had great professors help me through rigorous courses, used the Career Management Center to help craft my resume, and downed a latte or two from the Tradecraft Coffee & Tea Bar,” she said. Bhattacharya’s insights highlight the supportive environment and resources available to students, which will only be enhanced by the new facility.

Project Management and Design

The architectural firm Perkins&Will is responsible for the design of the new building, with Project Control managing the project. Whiting-Turner will oversee the construction, ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget. The expected completion date is May 2026, marking a new chapter for the Naveen Jindal School of Management.

Conclusion

The groundbreaking ceremony for the new addition to the Naveen Jindal School of Management at UT Dallas marks a pivotal moment in the school’s history. With its focus on innovation, education, and community, the new facility promises to enhance the learning experience for students and faculty alike. As UT Dallas continues to grow and evolve, the Jindal School remains committed to preparing the next generation of business leaders for success in an ever-changing world.