Houston Daily

The University of Houston marked a major development with the commencement of construction for a new academic building dedicated to the Hobby School of Public Affairs. This $52 million project is a testament to the university's commitment to public affairs education and is expected to enhance its research capabilities and increase its student body.

UH President Renu Khator emphasized the importance of the school, noting that it "not only educates future policy leaders, but it also empowers government, industry and everyday Houstonians," and expressed confidence that the new facility will further the Hobby School's impact, locally and globally.

The upcoming building spans 42,000 square feet and will be situated on the east side of the UH campus, replacing the old law building. Construction is expected to finish ahead of the university's centennial celebrations in 2027. According to Jim Granato, dean and professor at the Hobby School, this facility will be a "hub for interdisciplinary policy education and research" and will support civic engagement and leadership training.

Named after former Texas Lieutenant Governor Bill Hobby and his family, the Hobby School was established in 2016, building on the legacy of the Center for Public Policy, founded at UH in 1981. The decision to give the school its own building dates back several years, and it echoed the school's aim to create connections and equip leaders with necessary tools for effective public service, as highlighted by Renée Cross, senior executive director at the school.

Efforts to obtain funding for the building involved collaboration with state legislators. Jim Granato acknowledged the role of former Texas State Representative Garnet Coleman, praising his "leadership and tireless advocacy" in securing the necessary backing. Coleman remarked on the project, calling it an honor to support a school that is advancing public policy education both in Texas and nationwide.

The design of the building reflects ambition and a commitment to a collaborative working environment. "Healthy workplace experts" were consulted in the design phase, according to Alan Witt, professor and associate dean at the Hobby School, emphasizing the importance of environment on productivity and relationships.

Architecture firm Lake|Flato is responsible for the building's design, which focuses on community and wellness through open spaces and abundant natural light. Andrew Herdeg, a partner at the firm, highlighted the project's potential to support meaningful collaborations and research initiatives.

The Hobby School has expanded rapidly in the last decade, with undergraduate enrollment growing by 700% following the introduction of a bachelor’s degree in public policy in 2022, while graduate enrollment saw an 850% increase since the first Master of Public Policy was initiated in 2015. Its internship programs continue to flourish, having introduced over 2,000 students to public service through experiences in major cities, including Houston, Austin, and Washington, D.C.

Reflecting on the growth and future potential of the Hobby School, Dean Granato expressed his vision for the new facility, stating, "We want this new building to be a destination, not just for public policy education, but for thought leadership and policy analysis, as well."