The new state-of-the-art Malcolm X College has officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone in the revitalization of Chicago’s West Side. Construction on this ambitious project commenced in early September 2013 and concluded in January 2016, just in time for the start of the Spring session classes. With a total investment of $251 million, this initiative is part of City Colleges’ comprehensive five-year, $524 million capital plan aimed at enhancing educational facilities across its seven-campus community college system.

City Colleges Chancellor Cheryl Hyman articulated the vision behind this project, stating, “Our first priority in building a new campus is to ensure our students are prepared to hit the ground running in 21st-century careers. The construction phase of this project will provide an educational institution that is reflective of the communities we serve and will advance economic opportunities for all Chicagoans.”

The new campus encompasses an impressive 544,000 square feet and is strategically situated directly across the street from the former college, utilizing the previous parking lot. This facility is designed to accommodate health science, general education, and adult education instruction, as well as student services and athletic activities. Additionally, the campus features a new conference facility, an auditorium, and a parking garage, all of which significantly enhance the student experience.

As the Center for Excellence in healthcare education under City Colleges’ College to Careers (C2C) initiative, the campus was developed with substantial input from healthcare industry partners, faculty, and staff. Noteworthy is the incorporation of classrooms designed to facilitate combined didactic and skills training, including a virtual hospital that simulates a real healthcare work environment. Throughout the design and construction processes, a strong emphasis was placed on creating an energy-efficient building that promotes teaching, learning, and overall student success and wellness.

Henricksen, a leading furniture partner, played a crucial role in furnishing the new campus, providing innovative and functional solutions that complement the architectural vision. Their contributions ensure that the learning environments are equipped with state-of-the-art furniture that enhances collaboration and engagement among students.
City Colleges engaged Moody Nolan, the nation’s largest African-American owned architectural firm, as the project’s Architect of Record. In a reflection of the project’s significance, Moody Nolan expanded its Chicago office from nine to 14 staff members, thereby reinforcing its status as the largest African-American owned architectural firm in the city. The award-winning firm possesses extensive experience in the education and healthcare sectors, having previously worked on notable projects at institutions such as the University of Illinois Chicago and McCormick Place.

With the unveiling of the new Malcolm X College, the institution stands as a testament to progress and opportunity for the community, poised to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in the modern workforce.