Renovation Impact

One year in our new home

This spring marks one full school year in our newly renovated home—and we’re thrilled to share that the Haring Center’s renovation fundraising campaign is now officially complete.

With deep gratitude, we celebrate the completion of our $37.8 million campaign—made possible by the visionary generosity of Alyssa and Bill Sunderland, Anu and Satya Nadella, Grousemont Foundation, Joshua Green Foundation, Leslie Vollbracht, Margo and Tom Wyckoff, Norcliffe Foundation, The Sunderland Foundation, and the University of Washington.

These partners believed in the power of inclusive education and came together to create a space that reflects the excellence and impact of the Haring Center’s work. Recent gifts helped name Gareth’s Play Court (Sunderland Foundation), Norcliffe Play Court (Norcliffe Foundation), and the soon-to-be Kate’s Classroom (Leslie Vollbracht & the Winfield family).

It all began with a transformational $30 million lead gift from Alyssa and Bill Sunderland and the Sunderland Foundation—highlighted in this 2021 article from the University of Washington.

Since moving in last year, our new space has come alive with energy, joy, and purpose. Children learn and grow in inclusive classrooms designed with light, accessibility, and sensory-friendly features in mind. Educators collaborate and innovate in flexible, shared spaces. And our research and professional development teams now have dedicated areas to partner with schools across the state and country to expand inclusive practices.

This renovation is more than a building—it’s an investment in belonging. And thanks to our incredible community of supporters, the Haring Center is now positioned to lead the next generation of inclusive education.

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, PDT

“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