ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico is marking a key milestone in the development of its new Humanities & Social Sciences building with a ceremonial blessing, signaling the transition into the next phase of construction.
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The public event, scheduled for April 28, will feature a traditional blessing song performed by Diné singer Warlance Chee, followed by remarks from university leadership and the project’s design team. The ceremony is intended to reflect both cultural heritage and institutional priorities as the university advances the project.
Located near the center of campus, the new facility will sit adjacent to Smith Plaza and across from Zimmerman Library, positioning it as a central academic and community hub.
University officials said the project emphasizes a design approach that reflects regional identity and fosters a sense of belonging for students and the broader community.
“The blessing ceremony for the new Humanities & Social Sciences Building will honor the spiritual significance of this place,” said Jennifer Malat. “The design team spent time throughout the region, including at Chaco Canyon, Acoma Pueblo, and Bandelier National Monument, as well as on UNM’s campus, to create a structure that reflects the state’s heritage and connects our students to who they are and who they want to become.”
The building is being designed by SMPC Architects in collaboration with Studio Tsien, led by principal architect Billie Tsien, a recipient of the National Medal of Arts.
The design concept focuses on creating “containers for community,” integrating academic spaces with gathering areas that encourage collaboration and engagement.
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The Humanities & Social Sciences building will house eight academic departments, four interdisciplinary institutes and the university’s Language Learning Center. It will include specialized classrooms for American Sign Language and Navajo language instruction, along with a humanities research center, community kitchen and event spaces with views of the Sandia Mountains.
University officials expect the building to play a central role in student life, with nearly every undergraduate anticipated to use the facility during their academic career.
Construction is set to begin with subterranean work this summer, followed by vertical construction in August. The project is scheduled for completion in 2029.
In addition to construction efforts, the university is pursuing a $10 million philanthropic campaign to enhance the building’s impact and support expanded programming.
The project reflects a broader trend in higher education toward integrating cultural identity, community engagement and flexible learning environments into campus design.
Originally reported by UNM News.
