Austin Community College District’s (ACC) Highland Campus Phase 2 has been recognized with one of the highest honors in architecture, planning, and urban development. The Urban Land Institute (ULI) named the project one of just nine recipients of its 2026 ULI Americas Awards for Excellence, selected from projects across the United States and Canada.
The award celebrates developments that demonstrate excellence in design, sustainability, community engagement, economic impact, and innovation.
Highland Phase 2, designed by Perkins&Will and BGK Architects, transformed more than 420,000 square feet of the former Highland Mall into a modern learning environment that prepares students for high-demand careers while serving as a community destination.
“Receiving the ULI Americas Award for Excellence is an extraordinary honor and a testament to the shared vision and dedication of everyone involved in Highland Phase 2,” says Aziz Hussaini, Associate Vice Chancellor of Campus Planning, Construction and Sustainability for ACC. “Austin Community College set out to create more than a campus expansion. We sought to establish a vibrant, inclusive destination that advances education, workforce development, and community connection. This recognition underscores the transformative impact that thoughtful design and strong partnerships can have in creating places that serve both current and future generations.”
The Highland Campus supports programs in health sciences, advanced manufacturing, digital media, creative arts, and other high-demand fields. The LEED Gold-certified project also introduced new public gathering spaces, including the campus paseo, a student-run restaurant, an art gallery, and performance venues that strengthen connections between the College and the Central Texas community.
The ULI Americas Awards for Excellence have recognized outstanding real estate developments since 1979 and are considered among the industry’s most prestigious honors. Winners are selected by a multidisciplinary jury of experts in development, architecture, planning, finance, landscape architecture, and urban design.
For more information, visit austincc.edu/highland.