Baylor University Opens Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center

Baylor University opened the $60 million Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center in August of 2023 in Waco, Texas. Designed by Populous, the 120,000-sf complex is a vibrant campus hub for academic, cultural, and social activities. Acting as the front door to the university, the iconic facility features a grand hall with four soaring columns and an array of interactive displays to engage prospective students and their families. The technology-rich structure also offers a 3,000-sf admissions center, a suspended 250-seat auditorium, a restaurant, offices, and an inviting nexus for Baylor's alumni with a living room and a fireplace. A ballroom capable of seating up to 850 guests will function as a flexible event venue that can be converted into smaller meeting spaces. 

Vaughn Construction was the general contractor for the project, which broke ground in February of 2020 with construction commencing in fall of 2021.