ORLANDO, FL, Oct 27, 2025 – Schenkel Shultz, the University of North Florida (UNF), Ajax Building Company, and City of Jacksonville have started construction on the new Student Success Center. Schenkel Shultz is leading the design for the $40 million project, scheduled to open in 2027. The facility will support the university’s plan to increase its student population by 40% over the next five years and provide resources for its students.
Schenkel Shultz is designing a hub that offers academic and social support for all students, including international, commuter, and student-athlete groups. The project focuses on improving access to advising, health labs, classrooms, and food service areas. It will also include common spaces for students and faculty to connect outside regular class sessions.
“This project presents an incredible opportunity to positively impact the student experience at UNF,” said Ekta Desai, AIA, design lead and partner at Schenkel Shultz. “We are excited to collaborate with the university to create a showcase space that fosters creativity, collaboration and personal growth among students.”
“UNF’s newest expansion project is strategically designed with student success at its core,” said UNF president Moez Limayem. “The Student Success Center reflects UNF’s commitment to providing every Osprey with the advising and support resources they need to thrive academically and personally.”
The Student Success Center will feature about 60,000 square feet of new construction at UNF’s main campus. The project will combine existing learning and advising centers into one location on campus to improve access. The building will include areas for student success, career services, tutoring, supplemental instruction, help centers such as the writing and math labs, study spaces and lounge areas.
The building’s exterior design uses campus elements and branding to align with the university’s architectural identity. It continues the stone aesthetic along the western edge of campus near the carpenter library. The interior design features materials inspired by UNF Osprey’s ‘nest’ and ‘wing’.
Source: Schenkel Shultz
About Schenkel Shultz Architecture
Schenkel Shultz Architecture, founded in 1958 by Dick Shultz and Jim Schenkel, is an Orlando-based firm specializing in architecture, urban design, sustainable design, and interior design. With over six decades of experience, the company serves various industries, including aviation, education, public safety, civic, cultural, and commercial sectors. Recognized for its commitment to design excellence and sustainability, Schenkel Shultz has been instrumental in projects like the Orlando International Airport Intermodal Terminal Facility, the first LEED v4 New Construction Certified Intermodal Terminal globally. The firm operates additional offices in Sarasota and Southwest Florida, employing a diverse team of creative professionals dedicated to connecting people to places. As of recent reports, Schenkel Shultz Architecture has an annual revenue of approximately $33.9 million. Schenkel Shultz Architecture employs approximately 34 professionals across its Orlando, Sarasota, and Southwest Florida offices.