UCM Invests in Student Experience with New Welcome Center and Residence Hall

 

The 欧美视频 (UCM) has announced a significant investment to further enhance the campus environment and student experience. McCownGordon has been selected as the construction partner for both the new UCM Welcome Center and the replacement of one of the university鈥檚 longstanding residence halls, Yeater Hall.

 

The projects represent a continued investment in UCM鈥檚 commitment to create a welcoming, modern and student-focused campus. The new state-of-the-art Welcome Center will serve as a centralized hub for prospective students and visitors, offering an improved first impression of the university through engaging spaces and enhanced accessibility.

 

As part of UCM鈥檚 campus master plan, UCM will replace Yeater Hall with a new residence hall. The new facility will feature suite-style living, along with shared lounges, study areas and support spaces to foster a vibrant, community-focused residential experience. The project will also include thoughtful preservation of select iconic elements and artifacts from Yeater Hall, honoring its legacy while making way for the next generation of student housing.

 

鈥淭hough our campus is much more than just a collection of buildings, we recognize the critical importance of our facilities in how we serve and the impact that we have. These are the places where our students live, learn and build their futures,鈥� said Roger Best, president of UCM. 鈥淭he new Welcome Center and Yeater Hall are critical investments in student success that will enhance our main campus in Warrensburg. We look forward to partnering with McCownGordon again in the next chapter of our university鈥檚 growth.鈥�

UCM and McCownGordon have collaborated on a variety of projects through the years, including the Skyhaven Aviation Center and The Crossing mixed-use apartments. McCownGordon brings extensive experience in higher education construction and a collaborative, client-focused approach. The partnership extends beyond project delivery, with the firm actively supporting UCM鈥檚 Construction Management program and helping prepare students for careers in the industry. Many UCM graduates have gone on to build successful careers with McCownGordon, further strengthening the connection between the university and the firm.  

 

鈥淲e are honored to continue our partnership with UCM on projects that will shape the student experience for years to come,鈥� said Travis Huffman, vice president and business unit leader at McCownGordon. 鈥淥ur longstanding relationship with UCM has provided valuable opportunities to engage directly with students, helping develop the next generation of construction professionals while strengthening the future workforce.鈥�

Planning is well underway, with construction on both projects anticipated to begin later this year. Hollis + Miller Architects will serve as architect for Yeater Hall, while Grace Design Studios will lead design for the Welcome Center.

 

To support fundraising efforts for the Welcome Center, UCM is advancing the project through its ongoing Dreams Unite capital campaign, inviting alumni and community partners to contribute to the university鈥檚 future.