Rice students in front of Virani Hall

Virani Hall: Rice’s New Center For Community And Collaboration

Many students learn far more outside the classroom than within in it. The best lessons often come from after-class conversations, late-night group projects, networking events, or running into someone on campus with a completely different perspective.

Rice University wanted to create a space where these types of connections can flourish. Opening this fall, the school announced that their Asha and Farid Virani Hall will be a new hub designed to bring undergraduate and graduate business students together under one roof.

DESIGNED FOR CONNECTION

Rice’s new 112,000-square-foot building is named in honor of alumni and business leaders Asha and Farid Virani. It’s a branch off of the couple’s generous 2024 gift that established the Virani Undergraduate School of Business. Longtime supporters of Rice and champions of Houston’s entrepreneurial community, the Viranis have invested in initiatives that strengthen innovation, mentorship, and access for students. They are very committed to shaping the next generation of business leaders.

Inside, the building’s café, enclosed atrium, and open gathering spaces are all designed intentionally to become campus-wide meeting spots for students across disciplines. Rice students will have flexible, tech-enabled classrooms that support interactive learning. Breakout rooms make team projects easier. Dedicated research space, faculty offices, and event venues that encourage collaboration.

Rice leaders say the timing couldn’t be better for this building. Over the past decade, Rice has doubled its MBA enrollment, expanded its graduate offerings, launched its undergraduate business school, and grown its faculty, staff, and alumni network. As the school has expanded, so has the need for more space.

“We hope Virani Hall becomes more than a place to learn,” said Asha Virani. “We hope it becomes a place to belong, where friendships are formed, curiosity is sparked, ideas are challenged and memories are made.”

Next Page: A Look at The Incoming Class at the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce

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