Dear University Community,
2024 has been a transformative year for our campus as we achieved significant milestones in our Transform UMSL initiative. From the deconstruction of the SSB Tower to renovations in our libraries, new state-of-the-art labs for nursing and geospatial studies, and revitalized spaces for the arts, UMSL is on the move. As the year comes to a close, we want to share our progress and look ahead to the exciting developments on the horizon.
SSB Tower Deconstruction and Modernization
The deconstruction of the SSB Tower marks a visible and exciting step toward creating a new home for the College of Education and the Honors College on our North Quad. With the tower now removed, we’re turning our focus to modernizing the main SSB building. Once completed, the modernized facility will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, welcoming offices, and collaborative spaces that reflect the innovative spirit of UMSL.
To minimize disruptions and maintain efficiency, access to the SSB—except for the first floor—will be closed to the public during renovations beginning i two phases, beginning with the second floor on Monday, Dec. 23. The third af forth floors will be closed in early spring once the School of Social Work, Department of Political Science and UMSL Global have been relocated. The first floor will remain open for foot traffic and key resources like the Math and Writing Labs. This thoughtful planning ensures that progress continues while students have access to critical support.
Revitalizing University Libraries
Our University Libraries have also been at the heart of our campus transformation. The Thomas Jefferson Library is undergoing a remarkable evolution, with plans for a new entrance facing the North Quad. This addition, alongside refreshed study spaces and an expanded café with extended evening hours, will provide a more vibrant and inclusive environment for learning and connection. Additionally, the St. Louis Mercantile Library is being reimagined with a new entrance and an adjoining art gallery that will offer an inspiring setting for students, faculty, and visitors to appreciate our community’s artistic and cultural treasures.
A New Home for UMSL Music, Art and Design
As we celebrate these advancements, we are equally excited about the renewal of the Arts and Administration Building. Thanks to the vision and leadership of our faculty in the music, art, and design programs, this 25,000-square-foot facility is being transformed into a hub of creativity and innovation. Highlights include a 100-seat lecture and recital hall, cutting-edge digital media studios, a percussion studio, and a music technology room—all designed to provide students with a signature environment for learning and collaboration.
Richter Family Welcome and Alumni Center
Another exciting project is the construction of the Richter Family Welcome and Alumni Center, which will serve as a gateway to UMSL for prospective students and their families while offering a permanent home for our more than 117,000 alumni. This new space will provide a welcoming environment to guide students and families through the often-complex journey into higher education while giving alumni a place to return, reconnect, and give back.
In addition to our core Transform UMSL projects, we have made incredible progress on initiatives supported by public, private and university funding to uplift our campus. Just a few signals of this progress include:
UMSL Nursing Learning Resource and Simulation Center
This $7 million, 21,000-square-foot immersive learning center offers state-of-the-art space, equipment and technology for the College of Nursing to train the next generation of nurses. The new facility, which kicked off construction in November 2020, has increased the number of simulation rooms from five to 11, allowing the college to grow the number of pre-licensure BSN students it graduates by 20% annually.
UMSL Geospatial Advanced Technology Lab Center
Through the creation of the Geospatial Advanced Technology Lab, we are equipping students with the skills and tools to drive innovation and address real-world challenges in an area of growing global importance. This state-of-the-art facility was built with the help of $1.1 million in funding from the MoExcels Workforce Initiative and includes 24 workstations featuring the latest geographic information systems software and an adjacent virtual reality lab.
UMSL Children's Advocacy Services
We recently upgraded our Children’s Advocacy Center to create a safe and welcoming space for children and families in need of forensic interviews or counseling after experiencing trauma. This work included the design and construction of a new “Mock House” in the lower level to be used for simulations and trainings, a complete auditorium renovation to create a Hy-Flex learning environment and replacement of the HVAC system.
We know that this progress often comes with temporary challenges, and we deeply appreciate the patience, flexibility and enthusiasm of our entire campus community as we work to bring these transformative projects to life. Each new facility, renovation, and space represents a collective effort and shared pride in what UMSL is and what it can become.
As we close the year, we invite you to follow our continued progress through our Project Status Report (PDF) and reflect on how far we’ve come together. To our December graduates, congratulations on your remarkable achievement! To all, thank you for your support and dedication as we transform UMSL, and enjoy the holiday break ahead.
Sincerely,
UMSL Facilities Management
