Bowling Green, Kentucky, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Western Kentucky University has opened the new Amy and David Chandler Hall, a 113,000-square-foot facility aimed at enhancing the student experience for those attending the Gordon Ford College of Business. This state-of-the-art building replaces the outdated Grise Hall and features modern classrooms, a Student Success Center, and a variety of collaborative spaces. The opening coincides with record enrollment numbers for the college, showcasing WKU’s commitment to providing advanced resources for its students.
Bowling Green, Kentucky – New 113,000-Square-Foot Amy and David Chandler Hall Opens at Western Kentucky University, Enhancing Student Experience at Gordon Ford College of Business
The new Amy and David Chandler Hall, a state-of-the-art building at Western Kentucky University (WKU), officially opened its doors on August 18, 2025. This 113,000-square-foot facility is set to revolutionize the educational experience for students enrolled at the Gordon Ford College of Business as it comes in line with the start of the fall semester.
Replacing the outdated Grise Hall, which had outlived its usefulness, the Chandler Hall is a notable upgrade that underscores WKU’s commitment to providing modern resources for its students. The opening day saw an impressive enrollment in the Gordon Ford College of Business, with 2,488 students registered, marking the highest enrollment in the college’s history.
The Chandler Hall includes 21 contemporary classrooms and numerous flexible learning spaces designed to foster engagement and cooperation among students and between students and faculty. Among the highlights of the facility are a Student Success Center that consolidates essential resources, an auditorium capable of accommodating 310 people, and various study and socializing spaces geared towards enhancing the student experience. A coffee shop located within the building was named and designed through a college-wide competition, further personalizing the student environment.
Facility Features
The first-floor Student Success Center provides integral support services such as academic advising, peer tutoring, financial assistance, and a mock job interview area, alongside a unique “Suited for Success Closet” offering free professional business attire.
The classrooms are equipped with Zoom technology and large screens for effective computer projection. Translucent walls allow for an abundance of natural light while maintaining privacy and minimizing distractions. Additionally, textured wall panels help in achieving balanced sound distribution. Classrooms are designed to be versatile, allowing for adaptations such as switching to a laptop classroom model. A specialized second-floor classroom includes three breakout rooms for role-playing various real-world scenarios, enhancing practical learning experiences.
The Houchens Industries Auditorium, located on the first floor, is a versatile space that can be divided into two 150-person lecture halls. The Investments and Applied Learning Lab features a finance ticker and provides students with access to high-end analytics training and Bloomberg terminals, aimed at bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world finance applications.
Funding and Impact
The construction of the Amy and David Chandler Hall carried a cost of approximately $100 million, with $74.4 million sourced from the Kentucky General Assembly. An essential contribution of $7.5 million was provided by Amy and David Chandler. WKU continues to seek funds for the remaining project costs. Following the opening of the new facility, faculty have observed a notable increase in student engagement and retention, attributed to the building’s modern and welcoming environment.
Completion of remaining details within the Chandler Hall is anticipated within the next two to three weeks, ensuring that the facility is fully ready for its academic functions.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Building Size | 113,000 square feet |
| Classrooms | 21 with Zoom technology and adaptable layouts |
| Auditorium Capacity | 310 seats, divisible into two 150-person halls |
| Study Spaces | Flexible socializing and study spaces throughout |
| Student Support Center | Includes advising, tutoring, financial aid, and “Suited for Success Closet” |
| Investments Lab | Analytics training and Bloomberg terminals |
| Funding | $100 million total cost, $74.4 million from the Kentucky General Assembly |
| Notable Contributors | Amy and David Chandler with $7.5 million |
FAQ
What is the size of the Amy and David Chandler Hall?
The Amy and David Chandler Hall is 113,000 square feet.
When did the facility open?
The facility officially opened on August 18, 2025.
What resources are available in the Student Success Center?
The Student Success Center offers academic advising, peer tutoring, financial assistance, and a closet for professional business attire.
How much did the construction of the Chandler Hall cost?
The construction project cost roughly $100 million.
Who contributed funding for the project?
Amy and David Chandler contributed $7.5 million towards the project.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
WKU Athletes Shine with Player of the Week Honors
WKU Reopens Center Hall as Temporary Housing
Western Kentucky University Unveils Chandler Hall
Western Kentucky University Launches New Business Facility and Housing
WKU Honors Bryson Davis with Spirit of WKU Award
Bowling Green East Achieves Second Consecutive No-Hitter
WKU Baseball Stars Enter NCAA Transfer Portal
Three WKU Baseball Stars Enter NCAA Transfer Portal
WKU Baseball Players Receive Preseason All-Conference Honors
Additional Resources
- BG Daily News: Gordon Ford College of Business Opens for Classes
- WNKY: Chandler Hall Now Open at WKU
- WBKO: Look Inside the Newest WKU Building
- WKU Herald: Chandler Hall Opens
- BG Daily News: Chandler’s Commitment to WKU
- Wikipedia: Western Kentucky University
- Google Search: Gordon Ford College of Business
- Google Scholar: Gordon Ford College of Business
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Western Kentucky University
- Google News: Gordon Ford College of Business
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