FIU Breaks Ground On Cejas Architecture Building

MIAMI, Fla. (June 5, 2001) – Florida International University President Modesto A. Maidique, Architecture Dean William McMinn and former U.S. Ambassador Paul L. Cejas broke ground today on the Paul L. Cejas School of Architecture Building at FIU.

The $15 million building, which was designed by world-renowned architect Bernard Tschumi in a joint-venture with Bruno Elias & Associates, is slated to be completed in Spring 2002.

Cejas, who as a member of the state Board of Regents, championed the creation of the school, has made significant philanthropic gifts to FIU
totaling $2 million in support of the School of Architecture.

“This is quite an honor for me,” said Cejas. “The professional lives of many of the leaders of the architecture field will begin in this building. I
am very proud to be a part of it.”

The building design includes an enclosed courtyard and an outdoor gathering space with royal palms to create an area where “architecture and landscape become one.” Seven architecture firms submitted designs for the Cejas Architecture Building two years ago. A competition judged by an internationally renowned jury of architects, university officials, students and faculty selected the winning design.

The School of Architecture at FIU is fully accredited by The National Architectural Accrediting Board and The Landscape Architectural
Accreditation Board and is comprised of 50 faculty members and 500 students who are offered undergraduate degree programs in Architecture and Interior Design, and graduate degree programs in Architecture and Landscape Architecture.

Media contacts: : Media Contact: Todd M.-P. Simmons 305-348-22329.