Belmont University receives lead gift for new building for student creativity and innovation

Belmont University has received a $10 million lead gift for the establishment of The CORD – Powerhouse, a student-focused building on campus that will be a center for creativity and innovation. The gift comes from Cordia Harrington, who, in addition to being a trustee and vice chair of Belmont University, is an entrepreneur and business leader.

According to an article on Belmont University’s website, Harrington said of her decision to provide the lead gift for the project, “As an entrepreneur, I know that innovation happens when creative minds come together in inspiring spaces. The CORD will be that catalyst at Belmont; a place where students can collaborate, create and transform their biggest dreams into reality. This isn't just about building a facility; it's about creating an ecosystem where the next generation of leaders from across disciplines can develop the entrepreneurial mindset and innovative spirit needed to make a real difference in our world.” 

The CORD, which will begin construction in the spring of 2025, will serve several purposes on campus. It will exist at the center of campus to serve as a connector of sorts to the different areas of campus: academic buildings, healthcare, gathering centers, and entertainment. Among the spaces within the building that are intended to foster student creativity and innovation are a new performance venue, an eating space, and creative collaboration spots, with recording capabilities throughout the building. Additionally, there will be maker spaces and places to work with technologies like augmented and virtual reality.

Dr. Greg Jones, the president of the university, was quoted as saying of Harrington’s contribution, "We are profoundly grateful for Cordia's extraordinary gift. Her investment reflects her deep commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking in higher education. The CORD embodies our vision to reshape higher education, remove barriers between disciplines and create possibilities for our students to work collaboratively in unprecedented ways. This will be a transformative gathering space for students."

The CORD is not the only building on campus that reflects Harrington’s generosity on campus; Harrington Place Dining in the Johnson Center was named in her honor in 2016. Additionally, her $10 million gift will also be put to use in other capacities aside from building The CORD. The existing Harrington Scholarship for International Studies and Student Missions Fund will receive some funding, as well.

The CORD is expected to be completed by August 2026.

For more information about Belmont University, visit the school’s website.