Eastern Michigan University to break ground on new home for College of Business

YPSILANTI, Mich., Oct. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Eastern Michigan University will mark a major milestone in transforming its College of Business with a groundbreaking ceremony for the college's new home in Pierce Hall at 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15.

The renovation and expansion of Pierce Hall will create a modern, student-centered home for the College of Business, featuring contemporary learning environments, collaborative spaces and resources designed to prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. The project's first phase is expected to be completed by fall 2027.

"The College of Business' new home in a renovated and soon-to-be-expanded Pierce Hall represents Eastern Michigan University's continued commitment to preparing students for the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce in our region," said Amy Hietapelto, dean of the College of Business at Eastern Michigan University. "The new home for the College of Business will provide contemporary educational spaces, collaborative meeting spaces and a gateway for faculty, student, community and industry engagement, designed to foster career readiness, innovation, collaboration and hands-on learning."

The project will include:

• Student Success Suite — A one-stop destination for critical student success and academic resources, including undergraduate and graduate advising, career services, internship support and professional development.
• Student gathering and collaboration spaces — Multiple gathering areas, including a student HUB, breakout areas and flexible meeting spaces.
• State-of-the-art learning environments — Modern classrooms and specialized labs, including the Stephen J. Klotz Financial Learning Center, designed to facilitate active, hands-on learning.
• Industry and community engagement spaces — Flexible spaces for interaction with community leaders and regional companies, including an Executive Training Center and Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, with space for additional centers.
• Faculty excellence and leadership spaces — Dedicated spaces for faculty and leadership on the third and fourth floors.
• Building infrastructure improvements — Major upgrades to the chilled-water system, cooling tower, air handlers and associated electrical components, as well as the building generator.

"Investing in the future of the College of Business is an investment in our students, our region and Michigan's workforce," said Eastern Michigan University President Brendan Kelly. "This project will create an environment where students can learn by doing, build meaningful connections with business and community leaders, and develop the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. The transformation of Pierce Hall reflects Eastern's commitment to providing our students with the spaces, experiences and opportunities they need to succeed."

The first phase of the project will consolidate critical student success and academic resources while creating new opportunities for applied, hands-on learning. Specialized learning environments will allow students to develop the technological, analytical and collaborative skills increasingly sought by Michigan employers.

Consistently recognized as a "Best Business School" by The Princeton Review, Eastern Michigan University's College of Business offers more than 10 distinct disciplines designed for maximum career impact.

SOURCE Eastern Michigan University