Exciting News: University Unveils New Admissions Welcome Center in Manning Hall and Upcoming Summer Construction Projects

Brown University is on track to create a new admissions welcome center on the first floor of Manning Hall. This space, set to be completed in October 2025, will provide a warm introduction for visitors exploring the campus.

Manning Hall, which is currently home to the Office of Chaplains and Religious Life, used to feature gallery space for the Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology. The museum is relocating to a renovated space in the Jewelry District, expected to open in Fall 2027. This move is aimed at centralizing its collections and staff.

Construction for the welcome center will kick off after Commencement and Reunion Weekend. Designed by Roll Barresi and Associates, the center will feature interactive digital displays to engage visitors about life at Brown. Guests will enter through glass doors facing the Quiet Green, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere.

Logan Powell, the university’s associate provost for enrollment, mentioned the importance of having a dedicated spot for prospective students and their families. He said, "This may be the start of a lifelong relationship with Brown, so it’s crucial we create a space that feels warm and inviting."

An acoustic layer will be added between the welcome center and the chapel, allowing both areas to function smoothly during events. Meanwhile, the Office of College Admission will move up to the 14th floor of the Sciences Library, freeing up space for future developments in the Jewelry District, which may involve partnerships with local properties.

Funding for the welcome center comes entirely from donations. Other donor-funded projects include an indoor turf facility and renovations at the Ruth J. Simmons Quadrangle. Recent updates shared by the university also highlight ongoing work at Simmons Quad, where an outdoor amphitheater is being developed, set for completion in October 2025. This project builds on plans laid out by the famous Olmsted Brothers firm, known for their work on Central Park.

In the Jewelry District, construction is ongoing for the William A. and Ami Kuan Danoff Life Sciences Laboratories, despite previous concerns about federal funding. This development reflects a commitment to enhancing educational resources, illustrating how donor support is shaping Brown’s infrastructure.

Overall, these projects reflect Brown University’s dedication to creating an engaging and inclusive environment for both current and prospective students. By investing in infrastructure, the university aims to represent its values of warmth and belonging. For ongoing updates, check Brown’s official news page.

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