Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center
The Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center will be a high-impact addition to the campus landscape. Baylor University's campus draws approximately 60,000 prospective students, families, alumni and other guests each year, and the Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center will become the front door – for many, the first impression of our beloved institution.
The Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center will function as an entry point for those planning to explore more deeply Baylor's academic programs, musical and theatrical performances, social activities, alumni activities, athletic events, graduation ceremonies and more. Convenient parking and an on-campus shuttle service will provide a comfortable and easy means for navigating campus.
Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center
A ceremonial groundbreaking for the facility was held in February 2020 with an anticipated opening in 2023.
Project Renderings
The Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center is a 120,000-square-foot complex designed to create interest and enthusiasm in the University through a high-tech and interactive experience.
Giving Opportunities
Fundraising for the Hurd Welcome Center is currently ongoing. Naming opportunities range from $20,000 to $1.5 million and include:
- Admissions offices,
- Admissions office suite, and
- Light columns.
Contact Us
To learn more about opportunities to give to initiatives such as the Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center, contact Give Light Campaign Director Toby Barnett.
Toby BarnettAssociate Vice President and Campaign Director
Toby_Barnett@baylor.edu
Learn More about the Mark & Paula Hurd Welcome Center
WACO, Texas (Feb. 3, 2022) – Baylor University today announced a significant milestone as gifts and pledges to the Give Light Campaign have surpassed the initial goal of $1.1 billion, marking the campaign as the largest and most successful fundraising effort in the University’s 177-year history.
WACO, Texas (Feb. 21, 2020) – Baylor University today hosted a groundbreaking ceremony honoring the philanthropy of Paula Hurd and the late Mark Hurd, who together provided the naming gift for the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center, and kicking off the construction of a new multi-purpose facility that will serve as an exciting new entry point to Baylor’s campus.
WACO, Texas (Nov. 2, 2018) - Baylor University today announced a lead gift from Mark and Paula Hurd, which spurs the institution’s $1.1 billion comprehensive philanthropic campaign to create the Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center. Efforts for the new center are the cornerstone of “Give Light: The Campaign for Baylor,” the University’s fundraising initiative announced on Nov. 1, 2018.
