Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management announced plans Wednesday to build a new, high-tech building on Evanston’s lakefront. The facility will replace the business school’s James L. Allen Center, nearly doubling the number of classroom seats, and will be the centerpiece of the Full Circle Campaign, a $600 million fundraising effort.
The building will serve as the chief location for the school’s Executive MBA program and other non-degree programs for business executives, and as a meeting place for students, alumni and faculty.
“The concept of Full Circle highlights the crucial role that alumni play in creating the virtuous circle that allows Kellogg to thrive and be distinctively different,” said Kellogg Dean Francesca Cornelli in a prepared statement. “The teaching and experience that faculty and staff deliver allow us to send out into the world Kellogg Leaders who will have an impact and open new frontiers.”
Demolition of the Allen Center will begin in January, according to a Kellogg spokesperson. Officials anticipate starting construction on the new $300 million facility in winter 2025 and completing it by fall 2027. The campaign will contribute $170 million and has already raised 50% toward the goal.
Kellogg has also made a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations by 2030 and expects the new facility to receive a top rating from the U.S. Green Building Council.
“Our concept is based on connections to nature that promote well-being by incorporating natural materials and organic textures throughout the interior spaces, combined with cutting-edge dynamic learning and collaboration environments that further the mission and reach of Kellogg,” said Hana Kassem, design principal at Kohn Pedersen Fox.
