John Brown University (JBU) in Siloam Springs has announced the completion of a significant $2.5 million challenge grant from the Mabee Foundation, aimed at funding Project Two of the renovation for the Mabee Learning Resource Center (LRC).
To qualify for the grant, JBU had to raise $2.7 million from various sources, including individuals, businesses, and foundations, to support the LRC renovations by January 9. The university successfully met this fundraising goal, thus securing the full amount from the Mabee Foundation.
Originally constructed in 1980, the Mabee Learning Resource Center is the final facility on JBU’s campus due for renovation. Earlier this year, the university finished Project One of the LRC updates, which included transforming the broadcast studio into a modern soundstage for the film program, relocating staff offices, enhancing the Media Lab, and creating a new student study area called Neufeld Commons.
Project Two is set to commence this month and aims to revamp the LRC into a collaborative learning environment. This phase will involve relocating the library to the second floor and consolidating various student services, including the IT help desk and writing lab, on the first floor. Additionally, the project will create a space for the student-run Ground Floor Coffee and update outdated mechanical systems. The renovations are projected to cost approximately $10.6 million and are expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.
Jim Krall, senior vice president for university advancement at JBU, expressed gratitude towards the Mabee Foundation, highlighting their ongoing support of Christian higher education at the university. He noted that the grant would facilitate the transformation of the Learning Resource Center into a vibrant space designed to foster academic and personal growth for current and future students.
This initiative reflects a positive step towards modernizing educational facilities, providing an engaging and supportive environment for students to thrive academically.