Building Relationships

In the months since its August ribbon cutting, the 167,000-square-foot facility at the corner of Samford Avenue and Duncan Drive has become much more than a collection of classrooms, labs and meeting spaces.

It has given the college a distinct, unified identity.

“The new building has truly transformed how we engage with donors and plan events,” College of Education Development Support Specialist Kelly Buckingham said. “It provides a beautiful, welcoming space that reflects the excellence of our programs and gives us a place to call our own. The openness and modern design create an inviting atmosphere for meaningful connections, and donors love being able to visit.”

Previously, Auburn’s Haley Center served as a home to a majority of the College of Education. In addition to the college’s School of Kinesiology Building on Wire Road, the new College of Education Building now provides a central location for more than just the student body, acting as a hub of activity for the college’s alumni, donors and friends.

Buckingham is responsible for building and maintaining meaningful relationships with College of Education donors, and she has seen the impact of the new building first-hand.

“For those who have named spaces, it’s especially powerful,” Buckingham said. “They can see and feel that this is their space too, and that they are a lasting part of our shared mission. Hosting events here has elevated the experience for everyone and strengthened the sense of community within our college.”

The building has hosted numerous events for alumni and donors since its official grand opening last August, and the naming opportunities have enabled donors to see their impact in action. College of Education alumna Amy Baker attended the first official event in the new building, a preview of the building for donors with named spaces on the eve of its grand opening.

“Attending the official opening of the new building was an unforgettable experience,” Baker said. “Being there for such a milestone moment, celebrating the vision, teamwork, and investment that brought the space to life, was truly inspiring. The event showcased the college’s pride and momentum and highlighted its dedication to innovation, excellence and community.”

Baker, in addition to having named the Amy Baker Huddle Room in the new building, serves on the college’s ENGAGE (Educate, Network, Grow, Advocate, Give, Empower) Council, which plays a key role in connecting the College of Education with its alumni base. She said the new building is vital in strengthening that connection.

“The College of Education is more than just a place to learn; it’s a community that shapes lives, values and future opportunities,” Baker said. “The new building physically reflects the college’s commitment to its mission, and I am proud to support a space that will continue to inspire students, faculty and alumni for many years to come.”

Alumnus Clay Osburne and his wife, who provided the naming support for the Jason Clay and Emily McClanahan Osburne Huddle Room, attended the college’s Celebration of Philanthropy dinner. It was held in the atrium of the new building for the first time in October to honor patrons of the college.

“The new building is truly remarkable,” Osburne said. “I’m not sure of another college of education facility quite like it in the country. The building has amplified our desire to share with others what the College of Education is all about.”

For Engagement Coordinator Claudia Hendrix, the new building has been paramount in building relationships with both students and alumni.

“The new building has provided a true space for engagement,” Hendrix said. “It has been a headquarters for our students and a location where our alumni can return and engage with those students and each other.”

The College of Education hosted two tailgates behind the new building for alumni and donors during the 2025 football season. Alumni also participated in several student-focused events in the new building, including a resume review offering and the college’s Fall and Spring Preview Day events.

Alumna, donor and EAGLES Engagement Council member Diana Rossman said she, too, has felt the impact of the new building throughout her service to the college in the past year.

“We love the new education building,” Rossman said. “It provides our council with an excellent space to meet, collaborate and engage meaningfully.”