Celebrating Koelbel: Building the Future of Leeds
Named in 2007 in honor of the Koelbel family, the building that is home to the Leeds School of Business is more than a space, it’s a feeling—an environment that embodies Leeds’ spirit of connection, collaboration and creativity.
The recent updates to the Koelbel building reflect Leeds’ vision for the future and the dedication and commitment of individuals who keep Leeds moving forward.
Koelbel’s redesigned suites for Leeds Graduate Programs, Undergraduate Programs and the Office of Diversity Affairs offer bright, open, sustainable spaces to inspire the way the Leeds community works, learns and innovates together. The building fosters a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration, reinforcing the fact that we are all part of the Leeds community.
A celebration on February 18, 2025, was a testament to what makes Leeds—and our Koelbel home—special.
An Exciting Day for the Leeds Community
Tandean Rustandy Endowed Dean Vijay Khatri welcomed dozens of guests to the Koelbel renovation celebration on February 18, 2025. “To our faculty and staff—your dedication to fostering an outstanding learning environment has been the driving force behind this project. To our students—your passion, energy and innovation inspire everything we do, and we are so proud to provide a space that nurtures your ambitions. And to our alumni and supporters—your unwavering support of Leeds’ mission has helped make this dream a reality.”
A Legacy of Supporting Excellence
Thanks to the generosity of three generations of Koelbel family members, including Leeds alumnus Carl Koelbel (MBA’10, pictured), the vision to have a world-class building to house the Leeds School of Business came to life 20 years ago and continues to flourish. The Koelbel family’s generosity has allowed Leeds to create not only a beautiful, functional space, but also an energy-efficient and sustainable one.
Smiles are Part of the Décor
While the Koelbel renovation celebration was a big reason for guests to smile, beaming faces are part of the everyday experience at Leeds. The abundant lighting, environmentally friendly designs and thoughtful use of space all add to Koelbel’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.
It Takes a Village
The Leeds community gathered to celebrate all the people, ideas, energy and dedication to making the new spaces possible—from the conception of the renovation designs, to the construction, to the day Leeds excitedly reopened the entrance.
An Investment in Students
Logan Gero (Fin, BusAn’27) says Koelbel’s new “modern design, open spaces and improved layout make it a great environment for students to seek guidance, connect with mentors and prepare to excel in their futures. It truly reflects the investment that Leeds makes in its students.”
A Look Ahead for Business Buffs
Koelbel represents what Leeds stands for—academic excellence, collaboration and a commitment to educating future leaders who will make a difference. This renovation is just the beginning! We are excited about the classroom updates planned for summer 2025 that will enhance learning spaces for undergraduate and graduate students.