Arbor Building

A curious thing about the Arbor Building at the University of Houston–Clear Lake. It was once known as the Clear Lake Graduate Center. We’re standing before a piece of history, folks, a building that has seen the university evolve from its graduate-focused beginnings to the bustling hub it is today. The Arbor Building isn’t just any building on campus. It was the very first, constructed in 1971, a testament to the university’s commitment to education. Imagine those early days, when this building stood alone, surrounded by undeveloped land. Now, it’s a key part of a thriving campus. Initially, the Clear Lake Graduate Center provided a space for NASA employees to pursue further education in fields like physics, math, and engineering. The demand for these courses was high after NASA’s Manned Spacecraft Center was established nearby. It’s incredible to think of the brilliant minds that once walked these halls, contributing to our understanding of space exploration. In 1974, the Clear Lake Graduate Center transitioned into the Arbor Building, becoming a part of the newly established University of Houston at Clear Lake City. This marked a significant milestone in the university’s history, signifying its expansion beyond just graduate studies. Today, the Arbor Building serves a different, yet equally vital purpose. It’s home to the university’s renowned studio art programs, nurturing creativity and artistic expression. The Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities is also housed here, a testament to the university’s dedication to inclusivity and support for individuals with developmental differences. So, next time you pass by the Arbor Building, take a moment to appreciate its journey. From its humble beginnings as a graduate center to its current role as a home for the arts and a center for support, the Arbor Building represents the growth and evolution of the University of Houston–Clear Lake.