Theater kids push back on Seattle Us big plans for new art museum to replace Lee Center

Seattle University has unveiled plans to construct a new art museum along 12th Avenue, which will replace the existing Lee Center for the Arts, igniting a wave of resistance from students and faculty within the arts community. The proposed Seattle University Museum of Art (SUMA) is backed by a remarkable $300 million art collection donation from philanthropist Dick Hedreen, along with an additional $25 million for initial funding. While the university frames this project as a positive evolution for its arts offerings, many in the performing and visual arts departments express fears over losing a vital resource that has long served their creative endeavors. Planning for SUMA's construction is projected to commence in the summer of 2026, yet the opposition from the arts community underscores a broader conflict between institutional ambitions and the preservation of existing cultural landmarks. Janet Hayatshahi, an assistant professor in the Theatre Department, has articulated these concerns, emphasizing the importance of the Lee Center to the university's artistic identity.

This situation not only reflects the challenges faced by educational institutions in balancing growth with community needs but also raises questions about the future of arts education at Seattle U. The pushback signifies a critical dialogue about what constitutes valuable space for artistic expression. As the university moves forward with its plans, the outcome remains uncertain, highlighting the need for inclusive discussions about the future of the arts on campus.