“The Polsky project embodies the intersection of GAR's strategic priorities. By uniting the arts, education, community development, and economic development under one roof, this transformation will not only enrich student learning but also strengthen downtown Akron’s creative economy and vitality. It’s a powerful example of how strategic investment can advance multiple priorities at once while deepening the connection between campus and community.”
Rob Lehr
Vice President of Programs
GAR Foundation
The article below was published by the Akron Beacon Journal on Tuesday, September 23 and written by Anthony Thompson.
University of Akron receives GAR Foundation grant to help fuel Polsky Building renovation
The University of Akron has received a $500,000 grant from the GAR Foundation to help renovate downtown's Polsky Building, school officials announced Tuesday.
Having already secured $12.75 million toward construction to match the Knight Foundation's $15.5 million contribution, UA officials are hoping to raise the final $2.75 million to renovate what will be known as the Knight Center for Creative Engagement.
"The Polsky project is one that will energize campus and our surrounding community alike. On behalf of UA’s leadership, I thank the GAR Foundation for the recent gift as we move toward our fundraising goals," UA President R.J. Nemer said in a statement. "The resulting improvements to campus will amplify The University of Akron's efficacy in our city and far beyond."
The building will continue to house a number of organizations once renovations are completed, including the Fisher Institute for Professional Selling, the Taylor Institute for Direct Marketing as well as Akron Public School's Early College High School, officials announced.
New additions include a number of UA professional offices, an informal performance space, an art gallery and the Made at Myers Boutique where visitors will be able to purchase art created by UA students, faculty and alumni.
While currently in the design phase, construction on the building's renovation is anticipated to begin in January 2026 and be completed in early 2027.“The Polsky project is an architectural demonstration of our commitment to the city of Akron and to the urban higher education experience,” Pat Roberts, UA's vice president for advancement, said. “We appreciate the partnership with GAR and the Knight Foundation for their dedication to this project, as well as other lead donors including the Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation, the Lehner Family foundation, Toth Family Foundation, Huntington Bank, Peg’s Foundation and the City of Akron.”
Originally a department store when it opened in 1930, the Polsky Building is "being reimagined as a creative anchor for Akron’s future — a mixed-use hub where 2,000 students and 600 faculty and staff will work, study and engage with the community," UA officials stated.
School officials noted the Polsky renovation is "aligned with the momentum of downtown Akron," and hopes the project fuels a boost to the local economy.
"Studies show that universities investing in creative infrastructure spark job creation, raise property values and boost local revenues — benefits that Akron leaders hope the Polsky project will bring home," the school's statement read.
Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at [email protected], or on Twitter @athompsonABJ