The final beam was notched into place.
Hourigan Construction of Richmond staged a “topping out” ceremony recently as the last steel beam of the University of Virginia’s new Karsh Institute of Democracy building was put in place in its northeast corner.
Attendees included representatives from the Karsh Institute, Karsh Planning Committee, the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, the Provost’s Office, the President’s Office, the Office of the Architect for the University and Facilities Management.
Melody Barnes, executive director of the Karsh Institute of Democracy, signs the final beam of the building’s structure. (Photo by Matt Riley, University Communications)
The beam featured a pine tree on top, a traditional element of topping-out ceremonies, and an American flag hanging underneath. Attendees, including Melody Barnes, executive director of the Karsh Institute, and Ian Solomon, dean of the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, signed the beam before it was lifted.
Following an on-site lunch, Hourigan officials conducted a tour of the site.
“Topping out this building marks more than a construction milestone,” Barnes said. “It represents a symbolic step toward realizing our vision for a dynamic home where the work of democracy comes to life through scholarship, teaching, engagement and collaboration.”
