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University of Rochester to Break Ground on New Student Life Center

  • By Matt Jones
  • 09/03/26

Key Takeaways

  • The University of Rochester has begun construction on a new 15,000-square-foot Student Life building, with completion expected in fall 2027.
  • The two-story facility will feature campus-wide gathering, programming, rehearsal, and event spaces on the first floor, while the second floor will house the Greenbaum Center for Jewish Life.
  • Designed by CetraRuddy, the project aims to expand student-life capacity and provide dedicated spaces for community, connection, performance, and spiritual life.

The University of Rochester in Rochester, N.Y., recently began construction on a new Student Life building, according to a news release. The university partnered with CetraRuddy for the project’s design. A ceremonial groundbreaking is scheduled for the first week of October, and the facility has an estimated completion date of fall 2027.

The building will stand two stories and cover 15,000 square feet. The first floor will contain campus-wide gathering, program, and rehearsal space; the second floor will play home to the Greenbaum Center for Jewish Life. Similar to the university’s Catholic Center, the new project addresses capacity issues of the existing Interfaith Chapel.

“This building reflects who we are as a university, a place where every student can find belonging, connection, and space to grow, no matter their background or beliefs,” said University President Sarah Mangelsdorf. “It’s a meaningful step forward for student life at Rochester.”

More specifically, ground floor amenities are set to include an open lobby, a ballroom that can be split into two sections, rehearsal space for dance and other performance organizations, and a conference room, the news release reports.

Funding for the student life portion of the building comes from the university, while funding for the Greenbaum Center comes from donors.

“We are honored to help create a beautiful new campus space where Jewish students at URochester can deepen their identity and feel a true sense of belonging,” said David Greenbaum. “We are excited to see this vision become a reality and we hope the new Greenbaum Center for Jewish Life will serve generations of Hillel students as a vibrant home for spiritual life, learning, and community.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

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