Rice University’s Facilities, Planning and Capital Construction department hosted a breakfast to thank the many teams across the Office of Operations, Finance and Support that worked together to ensure the university was ready to welcome students, faculty and staff back to campus.
Over the summer, their efforts included supporting the successful opening of Asha and Farid Virani Hall, the new 112,000-square-foot addition to Rice Business that connects directly to McNair Hall and expands Rice’s capacity to educate and develop future business leaders. Teams also played a critical role in preparing Lovett and Chao colleges and South Main Servery.
“Together, these facilities will strengthen Rice’s residential college system and enhance the undergraduate experience by providing modern living, dining and gathering spaces for students,” said Brian Lindoerfer, associate vice president of facilities, planning and capital construction.
The projects include housing for 591 students, two magister residences, common spaces, rooftop terraces, outdoor gathering areas and a new all-electric servery designed to support the growing campus community.
“These accomplishments required close coordination among many groups and represented months, and in some cases years, of planning, design, construction, commissioning and operational readiness,” Lindoerfer said. “They are a testament to the dedication, teamwork and commitment demonstrated across our organization.”
Just as importantly, countless team members across Facilities, Planning and Capital Construction worked behind the scenes to prepare campus buildings, residential colleges and grounds for the arrival of students.
Together, these efforts helped ensure Rice was ready for the start of the academic year and positioned to continue advancing the university’s mission of excellence in education and research.