USC Upstate celebrated a milestone in its campus expansion with a topping-out ceremony for the University’s new 26,000-square-foot library addition on October 29. Leaders, staff, and project partners gathered to mark this historic moment as the final structural beam was raised into place.
The addition, designed by Moseley Architects and constructed by Thompson Turner Construction, will create an open, light-filled environment aimed at enhancing student services. The facility will offer a Student Success Center with tutor rooms, a Career Management suite with interview spaces and a career closet, a Center for International Education with multipurpose rooms, three large classrooms with a convertible event space, an athletic study hall, and various open study and lounge areas.
Chancellor Bennie Harris noted the significance of this project: “As always, growth is an exciting time for any institution. For USC Upstate, we’re investing in our student services and our library. Legislators have done an exceptional job investing in our students’ future. We’re happy for this topping-out experience, where our Spartans and partners signed the beam that will be placed atop the structure. This will go down in history with the longevity of this building, which we expect to last a very, very long time. Most importantly, we’re excited for our students, and we thank the developers and everyone responsible for this addition.”
Jack Robinson, Project Manager with Thompson Turner Construction, shared his enthusiasm: “This is the first building constructed here in several years, and we’re honored to partner with Moseley Architects on this project. Today’s topping-out ceremony marks an important milestone and is truly a celebration of appreciation. The new sky bridge will be a striking focal point, connecting the previous library and helping USC Upstate stand out for generations to come. Today, we’re placing the last large structural beam of the building—a project we began in June—and we’re grateful for the opportunity to build this facility for the University.”
Dean of the Library, John Barnett, expressed pride in the project, which has been planned for more than 20 years. “This is a landmark day for us, one that’s been a long time coming. Plans to build this facility have been in the works for 20 years, so we’re thrilled for the University and for our students, faculty, and staff across campus. This expansion shows a strong commitment from both the University and the state in supporting our growth. Our primary goal is to enhance career readiness and student success—that’s what we’re all about here at Upstate. My team’s dedication to learning, research, and knowledge is central to our purpose and mission at the University.”
Fred Scott, Director of Facilities Management, acknowledged the teamwork and long-term vision involved in bringing this project to life. “We’ve envisioned this project for over a decade. After conducting feasibility studies over the past several years, we’re grateful to Chancellor Harris for securing the funding for this magnificent building. Our students, faculty, and staff are all thrilled about this much-anticipated library addition.”
Organized by Shawn Sease and the Upstate events team, the ceremony concluded with a prayer led by Robinson, followed by a meal shared among those responsible for bringing the project to fruition. The library addition is expected to open in fall 2025, providing students with a vibrant space for collaboration, career readiness, and study for years to come.