Webster University Selects Sasaki Associates to Develop Campus Master Plan

Webster University has contracted with the internationally known firm, Sasaki Associates, to develop its campus master plan that will guide its Webster Groves campus planning for the next 15 years and beyond.

Founded in 1953 by Hideo Sasaki, Sasaki Associates, with offices in Boston and San Francisco, is an integrated planning and design firm committed to realizing thoughtful, sustainable solutions to their clients' unique situations. Sasaki offers comprehensive and integrated services in master planning and urban design, strategic planning, space needs analysis, landscape architecture, architecture and interior design and sustainability for companies, campuses and cities all over the world. Their planning and urban design practice creates design solutions that are a synthesis of rigorous analysis, economic realism, environmental responsibility and cultural awareness.

The planning process for the St. Louis campus will begin in September and is expected to take approximately one year to complete. The project will comprise four phases: assessment, exploration, master plan development and community engagement.

"We are delighted to be working with Sasaki, the internationally-recognized and celebrated planning and urban design firm known for its collaborative process," says Elizabeth J. Stroble, president of Webster University. "Their integrated approach to planning and design includes engaging the community and campus constituencies, strategic and academic planning, space needs analysis and sustainability ideas – all critical as Webster University transforms to the next level – the advancement of global academic excellence as we move toward our centennial in 2015."

"Universities must constantly evolve to provide relevant and meaningful learning experiences for the changing needs of our students and faculty," says Provost and Senior Vice President Julian Schuster. "The master plan to be developed by Sasaki presents a singular opportunity for Webster University to advance its academic programs in ways that support our distinctive characteristics; that is our global reach, our high quality education and our personalized approach to learning."

To assist in the planning process, Sasaki has contracted with a local firm, Jacobs Engineering, one of the world's largest providers of construction services, to provide insights for building possibilities and a Chicago company, The Scion Group, who will provide perspectives about student housing.

With its home campus in St. Louis, Webster University is a worldwide institution committed to delivering high-quality learning experiences that transform students for global citizenship and individual excellence. Founded in 1915, Webster offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs through five schools and colleges, and a global network of campuses. Its 20,000-plus-student population represents almost 150 nationalities.

Since opening its first campus overseas in Geneva in 1978, Webster has become a recognized leader and innovator in global education, with an international presence that now includes campuses in London; Vienna; Amsterdam and Leiden, the Netherlands; Shanghai, Shenzhen and Chengdu, China; and Bangkok and Cha-am, Thailand. Webster also has educational partnerships with universities in Mexico and Japan.

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