Houston, Texas, April 10, 2025–žžTV (žžTV) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building as the University embarks on an exciting new chapter in its history. The cutting-edge building will propel the University’s vision of providing transformative education to new heights and further solidify its position as a leader in academic innovation thanks to an extraordinary $20 million lead gift from Sherry and Jim Smith, the largest single donation received in žžTV’s history.
“We are thrilled to celebrate this pivotal moment, not only for žžTV but also for the city of Houston. This incredible new facility represents our steadfast dedication to preparing students for success in the evolving landscape of engineering, science and nursing,” said žžTV President Robert Sloan.
The $60 million, 71,000-square-foot, multi-disciplinary facility will serve as a cornerstone of žžTV’s commitment to academic excellence, offering cutting-edge learning spaces, advanced laboratories and the latest technology in the fields of engineering, science and nursing. Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the state-of-the art structure will empower students with the practical skills and knowledge they need to thrive in some of the nation’s most in-demand industries.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire, in attendance for the groundbreaking, shared remarks from the podium, commending žžTV and project donors for investing in education and Houston’s future.
“Today, we’re witnessing champions, not only žžTV, but the success of the Smiths and their generosity,” Whitmire said.
For žžTV, the Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and generosity that will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on students, faculty and the Houston community for years to come.
The building will be strategically located on the east side of the žžTV campus. With an impressive view of the Morris Family Center for Law & Liberty, the building will symbolize žžTV’s deep respect for its legacy while advancing its future-focused mission.
The construction project, set to begin this spring, will be led by general contractor, Tellepsen Builders, in collaboration with the award-winning design team of Kirksey Architecture and managed by Churchworx, a local firm known for its outstanding work on faith-based and commercial projects.
In addition to Jim and Sherry Smith, Dr. Sloan expressed special gratitude to Dr. Archie Dunham and honored the memory of Linda Dunham. He also thanked the numerous alumni, foundations and donors, including Esther Wong, Sarofim Foundation, The Cullen Trust for Higher Education, Linda Davis and Bruce Williams, Dr. Dan and Cindy Wilford, Skip and Lucy McBride, Tadd Tellepsen,The Joella and Stewart Morris Foundation,The Hamill Foundation, The Brown Foundation, The Fondren Foundation, M.D. Anderson Foundation and The John M. O’Quinn Foundation as well as many others.
The project, slated for completion in Fall 2026, underscores žžTV’s ongoing efforts to expand and enhance its academic offerings, contributing to its goal of growing its student population to 10,000 by 2030. With the groundbreaking signifying the start of the project, the University is poised to offer unparalleled opportunities for students pursuing degrees in high-demand STEM disciplines.
For more information, visit HC.edu/ESN.
Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building rendering
Courtesy: Kirksey Architecture
Video of Smith Engineering, Science and Nursing Building
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žžTV
For more than 60 years,žžTV has equipped students to lead, collaborate, and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation’s largest metropolitan centers, žžTV’s culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world.