BREAKING GROUND. BUILDING BUSINESS. BRIGHTENING FUTURES.
For decades, the Fogelman College of Business and Economics (FCBE) has been a driving force behind workforce development across Tennessee and the Mid-South. More than 30,000 alumni have gone on to shape industries, strengthen communities and lead innovation.
Demand for career-ready graduates is accelerating, and the FCBE is ready to meet the need. Our job is to cultivate the next generation of professionals to further strengthen Tennessee’s rapidly expanding business landscape.
Until now, outdated facilities have limited what we could do. Aging infrastructure and constrained space have restricted enrollment growth, student engagement, faculty recruitment and our ability to fully serve the region’s evolving needs.
We’re making a change.
The transformation of the Avron and Robert Fogelman Business Complex is officially underway.
Phase 1, a $30 million investment, is fully funded thanks to generous private donors and support from the State of Tennessee. This phase includes the complete renovation of the two existing buildings at Central Avenue and Patterson Street, with completion expected by the end of 2026.
This is only the beginning.
Phase 2 is a $60M total expansion that is expected to begin in 2027. A new, state-of-the-art facility will connect the renovated buildings and elevate the entire complex. With continued support from donors and the State, we are just $16 million away from reaching our overall goal.
Help us reach the finish line.
The end result will be a dynamic, future-focused learning environment featuring:
- Innovative classrooms designed for modern teaching and collaboration
- Cutting-edge research labs that fuel discovery and innovation
- Flexible spaces that prepare students for the realities of today’s workforce
This is more than a renovation or a new building. This project is an investment toward cultivating the next generation of business leaders, strengthening our regional economy and ensuring FCBE remains a catalyst for opportunity for decades to come.
Your support will close the gap and bring this transformational vision to life.
Thank you for your consideration.
A New Building is a Necessity
Community leaders, students and alumni speak to the purpose and benefits of our new building.
Where We've Been
The Fogelman College of Business and Economics has undergone numerous transformations from its name, to additional buildings and many added in-house centers and labs.
Administrations Constructed
(Current FCBE Buildings)
(Current University Middle
and High Building)
Where We're Going
Embodying all things bright, bold and boundless, the new Avron and Robert Fogelman Business Complex is set out to be a state-of-the-art hub available to students, faculty, staff, alumni and Memphis professionals.
Addition
While our two existing buildings are being completely redesigned, we are also excited to share that we are adding a third building which will serve as a connector of the previously disjointed facilities. This new addition is designed to promote collaboration and visibility between students and faculty, and will house a large, airy commons area for enhanced connectivity.
Exterior
The new exterior of the Avron and Robert Fogelman Business Complex will showcase impressive curb appeal on the highly-populated corner of Central Avenue and Patterson Street. The sleek, modern design and abundant windows will flood the interior with natural light, reflecting the innovative activities inside.
Interior
A student-centric flow, cutting-edge technology labs, innovation centers and large performance spaces/lecture halls are part of the design, ensuring the best possible learning experience.
- Case Study Classrooms
- Flat Flex Classrooms
- Computer + Center Innovation Labs
- Executive Conference Center
- Event + Training Theater
- Large Lecture Halls
- International Food Café + Coffee Bar
- Student Study-Pods
- Large Living Space + Common Area
From Vision to Progress
See the future vision for the Avron and Robert Fogelman Business Complex alongside current construction progress.
The Vision
The renderings below show the planned transformation of the Avron and Robert Fogelman Business Complex.
*Renderings are subject to change.
Building Progress
Follow the construction progress as Phase 1 renovations move forward.
Endorsement
Dr. Bill Hardgrave | President, University of Memphis
The Time To Invest is Now
Our buildings are showing the effects of their age and heavy usage. The building modernization plan is not a simple band-aid fix, but rather a complete overhaul to existing space and construction for a new third building. These upgrades will move our college into the future. Consider an investment today in our students, our college, our university and our community. Let’s work together to elevate FCBE and create spaces to encourage collaboration, confidence and, ultimately, produce the next generation of leaders for a vibrant business community.
Director of Development | FCBE
