More than 120 supporters, faculty and staff of the University of Houston gathered at its Sugar Land Campus to celebrate the grand opening of its newest building. The Sugar Land Academic Building 2 officially opened its doors to programs of the UH Cullen College of Engineering.

“Today represents the culmination of a vision to bring engineering and technology programs, research and expertise to our industry-rich region primed for collaboration and partnership,” said Jay Neal, Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs & COO of UH’s Sugar Land Campus. “Our College of Engineering faculty, staff and students have been in their new classrooms, labs and offices since the semester began. Today is our day to celebrate them and thank all of you who have been with us on this journey since the beginning.”
The three-floor, 75,000-square-foot-building features state-of-the-art wet and dry labs, active learning classrooms, student advising and lounge spaces and conference rooms. Funds for the $65 million facility came from a 2021 funding package from the Texas Legislature for UH System facility construction and renovations.
“I feel so much gratitude today,” said UH President Renu Khator. “Grateful to our legislators for their support. Grateful to all in Sugar Land for supporting this vision, and we still need that support as we look to build more. Think of all the innovation that can happen here.”
The new building sits adjacent to the College of Engineering’s Sugar Land Academic Building 1 and allows for 40 percent of the College to be in Sugar Land.
“This new building represents the next leap forward,” said Pradeep Sharma, Professor and Dean of the College of Engineering. “By next year, UH Sugar Land will educate more than 4,000 students across ten undergraduate degrees in engineering and technology, as well as multiple graduate programs—from biotechnology and mechanical engineering technology to information systems and cybersecurity.”
During the ceremony, Texas House of Representative Suleman Lalani and officials from Rep. Matt Morgan's office each presented certificates of appreciation to commemorate the occasion. Also in attendance were City of Sugar Land officials, representatives of The George Foundation, SmithGroup Architects and Vaughn Construction representatives, area chambers of commerce representatives, higher education partners, and leadership from the University of Houston.
Construction began on the Sugar Land Academic Building 2 in October of 2023.