Our Creative Arts Academic Complex was purchased in 2016 for $3.1M with a $1.5M gift from the Caster Family Trust and debt financing. The structurally sound 30,620 sq. ft. building sits on 1.3-acres and requires significant renovation. The property is directly adjacent to our existing Academic Building, and represents a crucial expansion for our growing community.
Our vision is to divide this structure into two separate buildings (Cinematic and Visual Arts, and Performing Arts) connected by a courtyard, which will serve as a venue for community events, outdoor performances, and student life. This complex will expand our current academic capabilities and campus exponentially, and equip our growing student body with the resources needed to create impactful art and more.
Renovation is expected to complete in 2025.
Entering the Cinematic & Visual Arts building, students will be greeted by a wide open lobby featuring student artwork.
The new soundstage is 25% larger than our current one, providing ample space for film sets and virtual productions with motion capture technology.
Production Offices will provide dedicated space for the annual Feature Film Program, and potentially alumni productions, or other key partnerships.
A larger art studio will serve as a dedicated space for illustration students.
New office space for creative arts faculty.
The new computer labs will host work stations for post-production and visual arts students.
A courtyard will serve as a venue for community events, outdoor performances, and student life.
An adjacent parkette provides an additional venue for outdoor events involving lawn games, food trucks, etc.
A wide open rehearsal studio provides a dedicated space for our acting students, including more room for sets, costumes, and props storage.
A public lounge and storefront facing Broadway will provide opportunities for business and art students.
Please note: Plans for the Creative Arts Academic Complex are subject to change.
Prof. George Simon
Chair of Communications Media