AKRON, Ohio – The University of Akron this week announced it has received a $500,000 grant from the GAR Foundation to help fund ongoing renovations to the historic Polsky Building.
The grant brings the university one step closer to the $15.5 million needed to obtain a matching grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. The university still needs to raise $2.7M by the end of October to secure the matching grant, according to a university news release.
The building, renamed the Knight Center for Creative Engagement, will serve as a hub for the university and the city’s downtown. The building will connect learning, creativity and community by offering programming for the university, arts and public services, according to the release.
“The Polsky project embodies the intersection of GAR’s strategic priorities. By uniting the arts, education, community development, and economic development under one roof, this transformation will not only enrich student learning but also strengthen downtown Akron’s creative economy and vitality. It’s a powerful example of how strategic investment can advance multiple priorities at once while deepening the connection between campus and community,” GAR Foundation’s Vice President of Programs Rob Lehr said in the release.
Once renovations are complete, the building will house:
UA’s Fisher Institute for Professional Selling
UA’s Taylor Institute for Direct Marketing
UA’s Esports program (the relocation will allow the university to expand its Esports program from 88 to 120 varsity players, according to the university)
Akron Public School’s Early College High School
The Audiology and Speech Center (public service)
Clinic for Individual and Family Counseling (public service)
Professional offices for the university’s departments of human resources, finance, payroll and capital planning
An informal performance space featuring a Steinway Spirio piano funded by the Kulas Foundation
The Made at Myers Boutique, which will offer art made by university students, faculty and alumni for purchase