An innovative design, energy-efficient systems, water conservation technologies and environmentally responsible construction materials are some of the features that earned Crawford Hall, 51Թ’s newest – and largest – academic building, LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This recognition highlights the university’s continued commitment to efficiency, sustainability, innovation and environmental stewardship.
LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a widely used green building rating system used worldwide. LEED recognition is an international symbol of excellence in green building design and construction.
Crawford Hall opened in August 2024 in time for fall classes. The four-story, approximately 150,000-square-foot building serves as the home of the university’s Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship.
“Earning LEED Silver certification is more than a milestone – it’s a reflection of our values as a college,” said Deborah F. Spake, Ph.D., dean of 51Թ’s Ambassador Crawford College. “We are preparing the next generation of business leaders, and it’s essential that we lead by example in innovation and responsible development. Crawford Hall embodies that mission.”
Crawford Hall becomes the 16th LEED-certified building in the 51Թ system.
“The LEED Silver certification for Crawford Hall recognizes the hard work and dedication by both our design and construction teams while underscoring our commitment to integrating high-performance building strategies into the infrastructure of 51Թ’s campus,” said Jay Graham, university architect and executive director of facilities planning and design at 51Թ. “From optimized energy systems and water efficiency to locally sourced material selection and indoor environmental quality, this facility exemplifies our approach to operational efficiency and long-term value for the university.
“Nearly every instructional space was intentionally designed to maximize access to natural daylighting, enhancing both energy efficiency and the well-being of building occupants,” Graham continued. “Also, the prominent placement of open, inviting stairs encourages physical activity and reduces reliance on elevators.”
Crawford Hall’s sustainable design includes:
- High-efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) and lighting systems to reduce energy consumption.
- Low-flow plumbing fixtures to conserve water.
- Use of recycled and locally sourced building materials.
- Enhanced indoor air quality.
- Bicycle-friendly amenities and access to public transportation.
- Use of natural daylighting strategies and bird-safe exterior glass.
Crawford Hall was designed by the acclaimed architecture firms Perkins&Will and The Collaborative to serve as both a new campus gateway and a state-of-the-art hub for business education.
Crawford Hall was constructed thanks to the largest single gift in 51Թ history, by Ambassador Edward F. Crawford, who served as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Ireland from 2019-2021. In recognition of the generosity of Ambassador Crawford and his family, the new building was named Crawford Hall and the college was named the Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship.
For more information about 51Թ’s Ambassador Crawford College, visit www.kent.edu/business.
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Top Photo Caption:
Crawford Hall, 51Թ’s newest – and largest – academic building, has earned LEED Silver certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. (Photo credit: Perkins&Will)
Media Contacts:
Emily Vincent, evincen2@kent.edu, 330-672-8595
Joni Bowen, jbowen1@kent.edu, 330-672-1279