News Summary
Kent State University has reported record enrollment figures at its Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship, following the opening of the new Crawford Hall. Over 520 first-year students enrolled in its inaugural year, marking the largest class in the college’s history. Despite a slight overall enrollment decline at Kent State, the new state-of-the-art facility has attracted students with its modern resources, including trading and analytics labs, enhancing academic opportunities and career pathways.
Kent, Ohio – Kent State University has achieved record enrollment figures in its Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship, coinciding with the opening of the state-of-the-art Crawford Hall. The new facility has attracted over 520 first-year students in its inaugural year, marking the largest incoming class in the college’s history.
This significant increase comes at a time when Kent State’s overall enrollment has slightly declined. Traditionally, the college experienced first-year enrollments in the high 400s, but the allure of the new building has proven to be a game-changer. Deborah Spake, the college’s dean, has cited the impact of Crawford Hall in drawing a larger student body.
Crawford Hall, which officially opened its doors recently, stands as the newest, largest, and most expensive academic building at Kent State University. The construction of the hall cost a staggering $83.5 million and spans an impressive 150,000 square feet. The facility boasts advanced resources designed to enhance both student engagement and academic offerings.
Innovative Learning Environment
The state-of-the-art architecture of Crawford Hall includes several modern facilities aimed at providing students with superior learning experiences. Noteworthy features include:
- The Robert and Janet Archer Trading Lab, which manages a real-money portfolio valued at $1.7 million.
- A Business Analytics Lab featuring 50 workstations and a large data wall.
- Six dedicated sales labs where students can practice pitches and receive instant feedback, significantly increasing from only one lab in the previous facility.
- The James R. Unger Global Forum, a large 400-seat lecture hall that doubles the capacity compared to the former largest room.
These advancements allow for large lectures and hands-on labs that can accommodate more students than previous locations. The hall’s innovative design also fosters collaboration, featuring informal gathering spaces like a collaboration staircase and outdoor seating areas.
Enhanced Career Opportunities
Crawford Hall has become a hub for student recruitment. Employers can set up recruiting tables within the attractive atrium spaces and host career fairs on-site, creating direct pathways for students entering the workforce. The atrium also includes a café, located strategically opposite an existing Starbucks, providing students with convenient options for refreshments.
A Beautiful Legacy
Aesthetically pleasing elements, such as the Crawford Fountain, enhance the hall’s environment. This fountain, inspired by the Cleveland Irish Cultural Garden fountain, serves as a charming addition to the campus and was a gift from Ambassador Crawford.
Growth and Future Prospects
The Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship now serves over 3,200 business majors and 1,000 business minors. Looking forward, further growth is anticipated as the college considers integrating additional programs, including sport administration and hospitality. New academic courses, such as one focusing on artificial intelligence tools, are also being explored to attract prospective students.
Crawford Hall’s cost was largely supported by a significant $28 million gift from Ambassador Crawford, along with over $10 million raised from various donors. This funding primarily supports the college’s endowment, paving the way for future program expansions.
The strategic expansion of facilities and resources at Kent State University highlights the institution’s commitment to attracting modern students, particularly those with interests in innovative fields. As enrollment figures demonstrate, the opening of Crawford Hall is not just a construction project; it represents a significant advancement in enriching the educational landscape at Kent State.
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kent State University
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