Our Projects
Long-term investments in Radford University and the New River Valley — from capital development and real estate to scholarships and community partnerships.
The Highlander Hotel & Conference Center
A $40 million boutique hotel and conference center built on Foundation land across from campus — the largest capital project in the Foundation’s history.
The six-story building on Tyler Avenue, across from main campus.
A public-private partnership
The Foundation leased land it owns at Tyler Avenue and Calhoun Street to Provident Group — Radford Properties LLC, which acted as borrower, builder, and owner of the facility. When the debt is retired, ownership transfers to the Radford University Foundation.
The six-story, 88,000-square-foot building opened in April 2023 as The Highlander at Radford, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. It gave the university conference and event space it could not previously accommodate, brought upscale lodging to the city, and created a working home for Radford’s hospitality program.
Visit highlanderradford.comProject Timeline
Financing closed
$24.5 million of tax-exempt revenue bonds sold through the Economic Development Authority of the City of Radford.
Groundbreaking
Ground broken at Tyler Avenue and Calhoun Street, across from Radford University’s main campus.
Construction
S.B. Ballard Construction Company built the six-story structure to a design by Blur Workshop of Atlanta.
Grand opening
The Highlander opened as part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, managed by Aimbridge Hospitality.
Project Partners
Made Possible Together
Other Foundation Investments
Capital development is one part of the Foundation’s work. These programs run continuously alongside it.
Donor-Funded Scholarship Endowment
The Foundation stewards endowed and current-use scholarship funds established by donors, distributing awards to Radford students each academic year.
Foundation Real Estate Holdings
The Radford University Real Estate Foundation acquires and manages property adjacent to campus, supporting university growth and the surrounding commercial corridor.
Campus Facilities & Technology
Foundation funding supports campus projects and infrastructure improvements, from renovated academic spaces to instructional technology.
Community Partnerships
Working with Highlander Radford, the Radford Chamber of Commerce, and Radford Child Development to strengthen ties between the university and the city.
Every Project Starts With a Gift
Foundation investments in campus and community are made possible by donors. Talk with the Advancement team at 540-831-5407 about directing your gift to a project that matters to you.