UNF Dedicates New Social Sciences Building

Contact: Joanna Norris, Assistant Director
Department of Media Relations and Events
(904) 620-2102



The University of North Florida dedicated its new Social Sciences building today during a ceremony held on campus. The $13.3 million facility is Jacksonville’s first LEED-registered facility (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), making it an environmentally responsible and healthy building for students, faculty and staff.

“I’m excited that the University is paving the way in Jacksonville with a new learning facility that is environmentally responsible,” said UNF President John A. Delaney. “Not only is this a high-tech facility outfitted with the latest in technology, but it’s also a healthy place for UNF students to learn and faculty and staff to work.”

The three-story Social Sciences building, located near the center of campus and adjacent to the current College of Arts and Sciences building, comprises 63,000 square feet, housing five regular classrooms for 49 students each, two theater-style classrooms to seat over 80 students each and three teaching laboratories. All classrooms are “smart” classrooms, with the latest in technology and wireless communication. UNF’s newest facility also provides offices for faculty, staff and administration, in addition to five large conference rooms, spaces for student/staff lounges, study areas and storage.

This structure, the signature building for the College of Arts and
Sciences, accommodates several departments, including sociology, anthropology, psychology, criminal justice and political science and public administration, which are currently located in various buildings throughout the campus. Bringing them together under one roof will encourage greater collaboration as well as interdisciplinary dialogue and programs.

UNF has also paved the way for the first LEED-certified, environment-friendly building constructed in Jacksonville. Special certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, a private, nonprofit group that encourages environmentally responsible buildings, is being sought for the new Social Sciences building. This certification is obtained through the LEED Green Building Rating System, which measures a building’s impact on its surroundings.

The new building will feature waterless urinals, natural light as well as energy efficient heating and mechanical systems. The LEED rating system evaluates criteria such as reducing storm water runoff, using materials that do less damage to the environment, providing user-friendly recycling stations throughout buildings, reducing energy use, use of waterless urinals and reclaimed water for irrigation as well as providing students and staff with a comfortable environment.

The Social Sciences building was designed by Smith McCrary Architects, while Elkins Constructors oversaw the construction.


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