Southeast Community College Academic Excellence Center

When Southeast Community College set out to reimagine its rural Beatrice campus, the stakes were high. Like many community colleges across the country, SCC was facing persistent challenges: a 50% attrition rate and only 40% of students completing their education within six years. But instead of retreating, the college leaned into a bold idea—that a single building could shift the culture, strengthen student belonging, and serve as a cornerstone for both campus and community.

A New Prototype for Learning

The Academic Excellence Center (AEC) replaces three outdated academic buildings with a dynamic, multi-use facility focused on STEAM education. As the first purpose-built structure of a long-term master plan, the AEC establishes a new precedent for community college architecture: one that prioritizes connection—between students and faculty, across disciplines, and with the broader community.

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More than just a new academic hall, the AEC functions as a civic anchor. It’s a place for learning, yes—but also for industry meetings, healthcare simulations, public events, and everyday gathering. It signals a transformation not only in how the college looks, but how it works.

Rooted in Place

The design draws directly from its Nebraska surroundings. A large western scrim, inspired by barn and silo forms, filters light into the building while framing views of the surrounding landscape. It’s more than an environmental gesture—it’s a visual affirmation of the college’s role in supporting the regional economy and honoring its rural identity.

Designed to Engage

Inside, the building is organized to encourage meaningful overlap. Circulation paths double as social and teaching spaces. “Cul-de-sacs” turn into breakout zones. Transparency between labs and classrooms invites curiosity and cross-pollination. Faculty offices are intentionally visible, making it easier—and less intimidating—for students to seek help.

This layout isn’t just efficient; it’s empathetic. It’s designed around how people really use space when they feel they belong.

Built for a More Sustainable Future

From early modeling to long-term ROI analysis, sustainability shaped every decision.

• The building replaces three single-story structures, allowing much of the site to be restored to native prairie.
• Mechanical systems, including VRF and dedicated outdoor air, were selected for performance and long-term cost savings.
• A restrained materials palette emphasizes durability and honesty, with fiber-reinforced concrete panels that are both recyclable and built to last.
• And while current use exceeds projected energy due to demand, the structure is fully “net zero ready”—equipped for future rooftop solar and ongoing efficiency upgrades.

Measuring Impact

A year after opening, the results are clear. Nearly two-thirds of students report using the building outside of class for studying and connection. Faculty have seen a rise in both scheduled and spontaneous engagement. And most notably, Southeast Community College’s enrollment held steady through the pandemic—defying a nationwide trend of 25–30% declines at peer institutions.

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The Academic Excellence Center demonstrates the power of design to address more than space—it tackles culture, equity, sustainability, and economic resilience. It’s a reminder that architecture, when done right, doesn’t just house learning. It helps make it possible.