Cuyamaca College Student Services Center Wins Prestigious American Architecture Award for Design

The nation’s highest public awards given by a non-commercial, non-trade affiliated, public arts, culture and educational institution.

November 20, 2024

Cuyamaca College building G

EL CAJON – Cuyamaca College’s Student Services Center has been included among over 300 buildings world-wide, awarded with the prestigious 2024 American Architecture Awards® for the best new buildings designed and constructed by American architects in the U.S. and abroad, and by international architects for buildings designed and built in the United States. The new Cuyamaca College Student Services Center and Administration Complex was awarded not only for its beauty, but for providing new and renovated welcoming spaces for both students and members of the community. Most importantly, it serves as a central hub for Cuyamaca College student services at the entrance to campus.

"We are honored to see our new Student Services Center recognized with the prestigious American Architecture Award,” stated Dr. Jessica Robinson, President of Cuyamaca College. “This building is not just a physical space; it represents our commitment to providing students with a vibrant, supportive environment where they can thrive academically and personally."

The Student Center was developed as a space dedicated to innovation, community, and the future of higher education, and creates an inclusive environment by placing outreach, services, and support where they are immediately available and easily accessible to prospective and currently enrolled students. The success of the space was measured by how succinctly the project connects students to services and their community. Through the collaborative efforts of those involved, the Center creates a Central Park setting, and defines a seamless student experience at the heart of campus while enhancing the splendor, use and accessibility of the outdoor spaces.

Category: Schools and Universities

Student Services Center, Cuyamaca College

El Cajon, California | 2022

Architects: HMC Architects and Engineers

Lead Architect: Jonathan Orr

General Contractor: Soltek Pacific Construction Company

Client: Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District

Photographers: Lawrence Anderson

 

About The American Architecture Awards

For nearly three decades, The American Architecture Awards, organized by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Arc

hitecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, remain the United States' most comprehensive public program that promotes the best new design worldwide. The American Architecture Awards reflect the changing state of US design and reveal new design trends by today’s foremost practitioners,

 as well as representing the largest, oldest and most comprehensive awards program of its kind in the United States. For 2024, featured works include new skyscrapers, corporate offices and headquarters, commercial high-rise towers, apartments, mid-rise housing, museums, cultural institutions, libraries, colleges and schools, private residences, sports facilities, hospitals, transportation centers, restorations and renovations, interiors, city planning, parks, and landscape architecture.

About the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District (GCCCD)

The Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District (GCCCD) includes Grossmont and Cuyamaca colleges, which offer hundreds of degree and certificate programs, including Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, and Advanced/Basic Certificates. GCCCD is the largest provider of higher education and job training in East County, and the top transfer pathway to San Diego State University. The colleges lead the way in developing educational programs, classes and services that meet the needs of the community of learners, and prepare students to meet changing community and workforce needs, while advancing social justice and economic mobility. www.gcccd.edu