FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – University of Arkansas students returning for the start of the spring semester will be welcomed by the opening of a new building as the new Hillside Auditorium is set to hold its first classes Monday, Jan. 14.

Hillside Auditorium is located to the east of the Greek Theatre and includes two auditoriums with combined space for nearly 800 students. The upper auditorium will hold 290 students while the lower auditorium will seat 487 students.

“The Hillside Auditorium replaces the old Science Engineering Auditorium and Geology Building,” said Mike Johnson, associate vice chancellor for facilities. “Both buildings were outdated and did not meet our academic nor energy efficiency standards any longer.”

The building is registered to attain Silver LEED certification and includes a three-tiered roof system that supports grass, trees and other greenery.

A date for an official opening ceremony has not been determined.