Austin Community College District (ACC) opened the doors to ACC Highland to celebrate the grand opening of Building 2000 on Friday and Saturday, April 22 and 23, 2022. The newest phase of the campus totals 415,000 square feet and features new world-class classrooms, labs, a simulation center, studios, and more. 

Nearly 400 people attended the college’s formal ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday to commemorate the official opening of Building 2000. Hosted by ACC Communications student Saliyah Parker, the event included remarks from ACC Chancellor Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Nan McRaven, Austin Mayor Steve Adler, and Travis County Judge Andy Brown, as well as a special performance by dozens of ACC Music students with renowned musician and frontman of Asleep at the Wheel, Ray Benson.

On Saturday, approximately 1,500 people came out to tour the new campus and explore the college’s programs and learning facilities.

The community-wide open house featured live forums with Chancellor Rhodes and students to learn about “Life as a Riverbat” and financial aid workshops to learn more about getting money to pay for college. It also offered opportunities to connect with regional employers and learn about jobs that are hiring today. 

Many of the college’s programs and departments hosted demonstrations and exhibits with hands-on activities and virtual reality opportunities to learn more about being a student at ACC. View a video slideshow from the event below.