Carroll University unveils $52.5 million facilities plan | Waukesha Co. Business News
WAUKESHA — Carroll University is preparing its campus for the future through a $52.5 million facilities plan.
“With enrollment this fall expected to bring the largest first-year class in Carroll’s history, the university continues to maintain growth and financial health, fueling the development plan over the next five years,” said a news release.
Beginning this month and continuing through July 2030, Carroll will sell or repurpose several underused facilities and undertake three major campus projects:
- Randall School (114 S. Charles St.) – a $10.5 million renovation to house the College of Health Sciences
- The Sullivan School of Business, Engineering and Technology – a brand new $32 million construction
- Van Male Field House (227 N Barstow St.) – a $10 million expansion and modernization project
These projects reflect Carroll’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for careers in high-demand fields while making a meaningful impact on the broader community. As part of this effort, the university is reducing its older residential properties and investing in larger institutional spaces to support expanded academic programs and enhanced athletic facilities.
The renovation of Randall School will enhance continued expansion of Carroll’s Physician Assistant Studies Program, while also supporting the Therapeutic Abilities Clinic (TAC) and the Carroll University Rehabilitative Exercise (CURE) Clinic.
These clinics offer free healthcare services to the local community, delivered by students under professional supervision.
“As demand for health care workers surges both nationally and in Wisconsin, Carroll is stepping up to meet the moment,” said Tom Pahnke, dean of the College of Health Sciences at Carroll University. “This renovation will allow us to train more professionals while directly supporting the health and well-being of our neighbors.”
The new Sullivan School of Business, Engineering, and Technology marks a huge milestone in Carroll’s academic growth. Designed as a collaborative, cross-disciplinary hub, the facility will bring together programs in business, computer science, aviation science and drone technology, artificial intelligence, and newly launched engineering fields — preparing students for the demands of a rapidly transitioning workforce.
According to representatives from the university, the new building is planned for just north of the Van Male Field House on North Barstow Street, across the street from the tennis courts.
Given southeastern Wisconsin’s strong manufacturing presence and growing dependence on automation and AI, the Sullivan School’s innovative approach will equip graduates to lead across both industries.
“Workforce needs are evolving across the board with employers emphasizing business acumen, digital skills and automation,” said Tim Sullivan, dean of the Sullivan School of Business, Engineering and Technology. “Even beyond technical skills, companies need graduates who can think critically, communicate effectively and lead with confidence and ethics.”
“The engineering industry in Wisconsin is an area of enormous need and opportunity. With a shortage of qualified workers, studies show a 12% growth rate in engineering jobs from now through 2032, well above the average 3% growth rate across all industries. The Sullivan School is designed to create productive, diverse workers with knowledge and skill in traditional areas, as well as AI, drone technology and engineering broadly,” the release said.
After interviewing eight construction firms across Wisconsin, Carroll University has selected a Design-Build Team consisting of Kahler Slater, VJS Construction, and Carroll University staff to lead the project.
Elevating the student-athlete experience
Also part of Carroll’s facilities plan is the expansion and renovation of Van Male Field House, supporting the growing needs of Carroll’s over 630 student-athletes across 23 NCAA Division III sports. Originally built in 1969 for just 300 athletes, Van Male will soon feature:
- A state-of-the-art weight training facility
- A competition indoor arena
- Multipurpose courts for indoor softball and baseball
- A refreshed lobby with student gathering and dining spaces
- An Alumni Suite and expanded Hall of Fame Hallway
“Carroll University is expanding and revitalizing the Van Male Field House to meet the growing needs of our students, athletes, and the greater Waukesha community,” said Dr. Cindy Gnadinger, Carroll University president. “This transformation will create a modern, inclusive environment for wellness, recreation, and athletic excellence.”
The combined $52.5 million investment will provide a major boost to the local economy — creating jobs, driving construction, and fostering long-term economic growth. More importantly, the graduates shaped by these revitalized programs will go on to become healthcare providers, engineers, technologists, and business leaders serving southeastern Wisconsin and beyond.
“This ambitious plan will not only reshape our campus – it will shape the future of our region,” said President Gnadinger. “We’ve been serving this community for 180 years, and this bold vision ensures we will continue to do so for generations to come.”