The Rowen Foundation announced today that Holder Construction has been selected as the construction manager at risk (CMAR) for the Rowen Convergence Center, a landmark 10,000 square foot facility that will serve as the front door to Rowen and an innovation hub for interdisciplinary collaboration across the region’s leading institutions and companies in agriculture, environment and medicine.

The Convergence Center, located at the heart of the 2,000-acre Rowen knowledge community, will anchor the property and function as a flexible, multi-use convening space designed to bring together researchers, entrepreneurs, industry leaders and community partners. The facility will host a wide range of programming, accommodating scientific research, community gatherings, innovation showcases, student and workforce engagements and public events. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 with completion in 2027.

“Holder brings the experience, talent and commitment to excellence that a project of this importance requires,” said Mason Ailstock, President and CEO of the Rowen Foundation. “The Convergence Center is more than a building—it will be a physical expression of our mission to spark discovery, foster collaboration and strengthen the Rowen Region. Holder’s reputation for high-quality delivery and deep experience with complex institutional and cultural projects make them an ideal partner.”

Holder Construction, based in Atlanta for the last 65 years, delivers research, innovation and community-focused facilities for higher education institutions and industry partners across the Southeast.

“Rowen’s mission to bring together research, education and industry partners is something we’re proud to support,” said Beth Lowry, President and CEO of Holder Construction. “Our role is to help the Foundation realize its vision for this first facility in a way that reflects the character of the project and the needs of the community it will serve. We’re grateful for the trust placed in us and look forward to working closely with Rowen and its partners.”

The selection of Holder Construction followed a competitive process led by the Rowen Foundation Board of Directors. The Convergence Center will anchor the 150-acre Rowen village, which will include a variety of research facilities, mixed-use environments and partnerships with leading institutions such as the University of Georgia, Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Spelman College, Georgia Gwinnett College and others across the region.

Additional design, engineering and project partners will be announced in early 2026.