University of St. Thomas readies to build new 5-story residence hall

Quote of note

“This groundbreaking ceremony marks an important milestone for our campus,” UST President Dr. Sinda Vanderpool said. “UST is focusing on student success, which includes a wonderfully rich academic life, a vibrant campus life, and, most importantly, access to on-campus living so students can enjoy every minute of their college experience.”

Officials with the university said the project meets demand for housing while strengthening student engagement and campus life.

In 2022, UST celebrated the largest incoming first-year freshman class in school history, with close to 500 freshmen enrolling for the fall semester, up from almost 100 students two years prior, according to the university's website. A year later, the university also welcomed the largest incoming undergraduate class of more than 800 students.

As of late 2024, UST has a total enrollment of roughly 4,350 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.

The funding source

The new resident hall is projected to cost approximately $45 million to build. The majority of funding comes from fundraising efforts, with an anonymous $11 million gift and an $8 million gift from the Sarofim Foundation, per the release.

Several additional seven-figure donations were also given from foundations such as The Brown Foundation, Cullen Trust for Higher Education and The Elkins Foundation.

“These transformational gifts are helping create a true home away from home for our students,” Vanderpool said. “We are deeply grateful for the generosity and vision of the Sarofim Foundation and others, whose support is making it possible for more students to live on campus and fully experience the academic, spiritual and community life of UST.”

One more thing

The new building is expected to open in fall 2028.