WHAT: Groundbreaking ceremony for the Global Village Learning Center at the Jameson Dormitory Complex, Douglass Residential College. Completion is scheduled for 2016, the 98th anniversary of Douglass Residential College.

WHO: Speakers and dignitaries include Rutgers University President Robert Barchi; Rutgers University-New Brunswick Chancellor Richard L. Edwards; Dean Jacquelyn Litt, Douglass Residential College; Kathleen Ludwig, Douglass College, ’75; Marquisa Graves, Douglass Residential College, 2016.

WHEN: 10 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18

WHERE: Jameson Complex grounds, 7 Suydam St. (near Nichol Avenue and Suydam Street), Douglass Campus, Rutgers University-New Brunswick. A reception will follow the ceremony at the Douglass Lounge in the Douglass Student Center, 100 George St.

BACKGROUND: The Global Village Learning Center at Douglass Residential College is a 19,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art residential facility that will provide additional dorm rooms, classrooms, and assembly and lounge spaces for lecturers and conferences. The $11.5 million project is scheduled for completion in fall 2016 – during Rutgers’ 250th anniversary celebration – and is a partnership between the Associate Alumnae of Douglass College and other donors, and Rutgers University.

The Global Village is a living-learning community that will give Douglass students opportunities to develop language skills, intercultural appreciation, global awareness and a sense of community. The unique residential environment will combine curricular and co-curricular activities meant to enhance each student’s overall college experience.

Founded in 1918 as the New Jersey College for Women, Douglass Residential College has successfully transformed its mission to prepare women to thrive as global leaders in the 21st century’s rapidly changing political and economic environments.