Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti will break ground on Oct. 15 for the renovation and expansion of Pierce Hall, the new home of its College of Business.
The project is designed to be a modern, student-centered facility featuring contemporary learning environments, collaborative spaces, and resources intended to prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce. The project’s first phase is expected to be completed by fall 2027.
“The College of Business’ new home in a renovated and soon-to-be-expanded Pierce Hall represents Eastern Michigan University’s continued commitment to preparing students for the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce in our region,” says Amy Hietapelto, dean of the College of Business at EMU.
“The new home for the College of Business will provide contemporary educational spaces, collaborative meeting spaces, and a gateway for faculty, student, community, and industry engagement. (It is) designed to foster career readiness, innovation, collaboration, and hands-on learning.”
Pierce Hall was completed in 1948 as the central administrative headquarters for the university. In recent years, those functions were moved to Welch Hall, paving the way for the College of Business to move from its temporary location in Hill Hall. Prior to that move, the college was located in downtown Ypsilanti.
The renovated Pierce Hall will include:
Student Success Suite — A one-stop destination for critical student success and academic resources, including undergraduate and graduate advising, career services, internship support, and professional development.
Student gathering and collaboration spaces — Multiple gathering areas, including a student HUB, breakout areas, and flexible meeting spaces.
State-of-the-art learning environments — Modern classrooms and specialized labs, including the Stephen J. Klotz Financial Learning Center, designed to facilitate active, hands-on learning.
Industry and community engagement spaces — Flexible spaces for interaction with community leaders and regional companies, including an Executive Training Center and Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, with space for additional centers.
Faculty excellence and leadership spaces — Dedicated spaces for faculty and leadership on the third and fourth floors.
Building infrastructure improvements — Major upgrades to the chilled-water system, cooling tower, air handlers, and associated electrical components, as well as the building generator.
“Investing in the future of the College of Business is an investment in our students, our region, and Michigan’s workforce,” says Brendan Kelly the recently installed president of EMU. “This project will create an environment where students can learn by doing, build meaningful connections with business and community leaders, and develop the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing economy.
“The transformation of Pierce Hall reflects Eastern’s commitment to providing our students with the spaces, experiences, and opportunities they need to succeed.”
The first phase of the project will consolidate critical student success and academic resources while creating new opportunities for applied hands-on learning. Specialized learning environments are expected to allow students to develop the technological, analytical, and collaborative skills increasingly sought by Michigan employers.
Phase 2 will complete the transformation of Pierce Hall into a comprehensive, modern home for the College of Business. The second phase is expected to expand student-centered learning and collaboration spaces while creating additional opportunities to support innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce development, including space for College of Business centers.
EMU’s College of Business offers more than 10 distinct disciplines designed for maximum career impact. Through “innovative” academic programs, experiential learning, and connections with the business community, the college strives to prepare students to succeed in a competitive and changing global economy, according to the university.
