Iowa State University dedicates LeBaron Complex project, advancing future of health and human sciences

Pictured left to right: ISU Foundation President and CEO Larissa Holtmyer Jones; College of Health and Human Sciences Dean’s Chair Laura Dunn Jolly; ISU President David Cook; sophomore in fashion design and merchandising Rahela Luyobya

AMES, Iowa — Iowa State University celebrated the dedication of the LeBaron Complex project on Thursday, Sept. 17, marking a significant milestone in advancing the learning and research environments in the College of Health and Human Sciences.

The approximately $54 million project completed primarily through private giving provides a modern, integrated environment for teaching, research, collaboration and experiential learning. The project included construction of a new building to replace LeBaron Hall, renovations to the Human Nutritional Sciences Building, a new two-story commons area and a reimagined central courtyard.

“This new learning space reflects Iowa State University’s commitment to preparing students to lead and innovate in fields that strengthen Iowa’s communities and economy. Through hands-on learning, research and industry collaboration, the new complex will help develop Iowa’s future workforce while advancing discoveries that improve lives. We are deeply grateful to our donors whose generosity is making this vision possible,” said Iowa State University President David Cook.

The project replaces LeBaron Hall with a modern 35,000-square-foot facility designed to meet the needs of teaching and discovery. Anchoring the northwest corner of central campus, the new building expands the original footprint and adds three floors above ground. Features include:

Adjacent to LeBaron, the Human Nutritional Sciences Building already underwent renovations that brought together all facets of textile science research on the building’s second floor. This work was previously spread throughout LeBaron and MacKay halls. A textile science classroom is now near the research laboratories, enhancing efficiencies.

Bridging the various elements of the project is a dramatic two-story commons area, a multipurpose courtyard and renovated lobby spaces designed to encourage collaboration, community engagement and experiential learning opportunities.

“This complex reflects the bold future of the College of Health and Human Sciences by creating new opportunities for students to learn by doing, collaborate across disciplines and gain experiences that prepare them for successful careers,” said Laura Dunn Jolly, Health and Human Sciences Dean’s Chair. “We are deeply grateful to the alumni and friends whose generosity is helping make these opportunities possible for current and future generations of Iowa State students.”

The project was funded primarily through private philanthropy, including a lead gift of $15.5 million, along with university support. More than 200 alumni and friends gave to the project, demonstrating extraordinary confidence in the College of Health and Human Sciences and Iowa State University. Their support reflects the power of collective philanthropy to advance student success and strengthen the university’s impact for future generations. The donors to the project made their gift commitments through the Iowa State University Foundation, a private, nonprofit organization that engages alumni and friends, inspires philanthropic support and stewards resources to advance Iowa State University and its impact across Iowa and around the world.

The next phase of the college’s facilities project is the construction of the new student-run restaurant, which will honor and continue the legacy of the Joan Bice Underwood Tearoom as it celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

Rooted in a tradition of leadership that began with Iowa State’s pioneering role in home economics, the College of Health and Human Sciences is a national leader in teaching, research and outreach. The college serves nearly 3,400 students and encompasses five academic units: apparel, events and hospitality management; the School of Education; food science and human nutrition; human development and family studies; and kinesiology.

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