Renovation Impact

One year in our new home

Thanks to your generous support, the Haring Center has been transformed into a state-of-the-art, inclusive learning environment, reflecting your commitment to advancing education, inclusion, and sustainability. Since reopening to students in January 2024, this newly renovated space has made a profound difference in the lives of students, educators, and researchers who rely on it every day.

Your investment has empowered more hands-on training opportunities for educators and researchers in inclusive education, strengthening their ability to create meaningful change in classrooms and communities. The Haring Center now stands as a beacon of innovation and leadership, fostering progress and inclusion while championing environmental responsibility.

This transformation is more than bricks and mortar — it is a tangible expression of your dedication to shaping a better future. Thank you for making this vision a reality.

The new building has had a positive impact on our ability to deliver meaningful training and professional development! With the updated booths and classrooms, I have been better able to bring providers and teachers to the Haring Center to observe the classrooms and inclusive learning in action! The new conference rooms with updated technology and flexible seating have made it so much easier to deliver effective in person trainings! Having a designated space for the professional development team to work has also helped improve our collaboration amongst team members!
-Julie Lockhart, PDU

Gym days were always something our kiddos would look forward to each week, but it feels like there is an extra burst of excitement when it comes to spending our weekly 45 minutes moving our bodies in gym since the remodel. The newly added climbing web, turfed surface, and track on the outdoor space have all been such a big hit and HIGHLY utilized additions!
-LaShondra Hayes, EEU Preschool Teacher

Highlights 

In September, over 150 school facilities leaders, architects, and administrators from the Association for Learning Environments (A4LE) toured the Haring Center and learned about our renovation. It was a joy to watch them experience our space and imagine the intentional ways they can nurture inclusive spaces in their own communities

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Working with Mithun, Studio Matthews developed environmental graphics, wayfinding systems, and sensory-friendly features that make the Haring Center more accessible and inviting. The design elements include vibrant visuals and accessible information displays that celebrate diversity, foster a sense of belonging, and reinforce the center’s commitment to inclusive education. The project emphasizes creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, with each design choice reinforcing the Haring Center’s mission to support all learners.

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A crowning achievement of the renovation is the Haring Center’s LEED Platinum certification, awarded in September 2024. This prestigious certification reflects a commitment to sustainable building practices and resource efficiency. By incorporating solar power, water-efficient systems, and sustainable materials, the renovation aligns with UW’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Not only has the center reduced its carbon footprint, but it has also created healthier, adaptable spaces that enhance both student well-being and educational outcomes.

I’ve had conversations with colleagues and students in the open, shared workspaces that have generated several ideas for continuing our research to support families and teachers. The design of the spaces really makes this collaborative work more natural.
-Scott Spaulding, College of Education Professor and Researcher

Photos by Benjamin Benschneider www.benschneiderphoto.com