New School of Data Science Building: A Collaborative and Sustainable Space for UVA’s Future Data Leaders

In January 2020, the architectural teams of Hopkins Architects, VMDO, and the University’s Office of the Architect began designing a new building for the School of Data Science. Construction was led by the Gilbane Building Company, with a guiding philosophy to create a space that fosters collaboration and promotes sustainability. Phil Bourne, founding dean of the School of Data Science, described the building as a beautiful and recognizable home at UVA that embodies the university’s culture of excellence, openness, transparency, interdisciplinarity, and community engagement.

The facility is LEED Gold-certified and features solar panels in individual offices, vents and windows to limit the need for artificial lighting. It also includes a wellness area, a lactation space, and all non-gendered restrooms. Jaffray Woodriff, 1991 UVA graduate and supporter of data science expressed his excitement about the potential role of the School of Data Science in shaping the future as artificial intelligence continues to expand. He stated that as an early champion of data science he was thrilled to see his alma mater establish a school dedicated to studying this field and create a home for it on Grounds. He is eager to cheer on UVA’s contributions towards navigating AI safely and ethically.