The Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center will be a gateway to the University of Washington — illuminating pathways for students, alumni, neighbors and visitors to explore the UW’s history, mission and global impact through tours, events and community programming.
Background
The idea for a comprehensive Welcome Center has been in the works for over seven years, beginning with early visioning efforts in April 2018. Since then, the University has explored various site options, ultimately aiming to create a space that serves as both an admissions hub and a welcoming community destination.
The Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center is designed to be a dynamic, engaging space that serves as a gateway to the UW. As the UW continues to grow and evolve, the need for a centralized, visitor-focused space has become increasingly important — enhancing the experience of prospective students, visitors, alumni and neighbors.
About the location
To understand what the Welcome Center will do and who it will serve, look to where it will be built: at an iconic intersection of our community, history and culture.
The northwest corner of the UW campus in Seattle is one of the University’s most recognized entrances and holds a special place in the hearts of our neighbors and Huskies everywhere.
To the north, University Heights is home to tens of thousands of students. To the west is the vibrant and eclectic University District, a hub for food, arts and entertainment. Here, University Book Store serves as an intellectual cornerstone, as it has for generations of students, faculty and the community.
Project snapshot
Square footage
30,000–33,000 gross square feet
Approximate total cost
$61,416,000
Timeline
Planning:
Jan. 2024–May 2025
Design and permitting:
May 2025–Dec. 2026
Construction:
Dec. 2026–spring 2028
Completion:
Anticipated spring 2028
About the building
Key features of the Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center include:
- An open, inviting and accessible Visitor Center where everyone can begin their UW journey.
- A hall with interactive exhibits that tell the story of the three UW campuses — their histories, values and global impact.
- An auditorium and collaborative event spaces that will host admission sessions, alumni gatherings, neighborhood town halls, public lectures, faculty and student panels, author readings and more.
- A community courtyard designed for events and public engagement.
Budget
The total project budget for the Welcome Center is $61.4 million, with the majority of funding being secured through donor contributions. The University of Washington and the UW Alumni Association are jointly committed to bringing this center to life.
Proposed funding
| Donor funding | $57,166,000 | 93.1% |
|---|---|---|
| UWAA funding | $4,250,000 | 6.9% |
| Total funding | $61,416,000 | 100% |