The University of Pittsburgh's Cathedral of Learning, a historic landmark, is the second-tallest educational building in the world (42 stories, 535 feet tall), founded in 1926. It is also the geographic and traditional heart of the campus. Cathedral of Learning has 27 Nationality Rooms, twenty-five working classrooms and two display rooms, on the first and third floors. These classrooms, each ornately designed and decorated with the theme of a specific country (or ethnicity, in some cases). They are, in fact, quite an attraction for tourists and Pittsburghers alike.
Unfortunately, despite the sizable Iranian population in the area and the long, rich history of the country, there is no Iranian room. We would like to announce the project to build the Iranian Nationality Room in the University of Pittsburgh’s Cathedral of Learning. The preliminary work is currently underway. This will be a community-supported project, independent of any government or political ties. In order for this project to succeed, we need to mobilize the Iranian community and cultivate the support of the greater community.
Support:
We are in need of all kinds of community support, including but not limited to:
- Committee members: This program will require forming an executive committee who will handle project planning, fundraising and all others issues. Committee members must be willing to make a long-term commitment and take responsibilities for the projects. The core committee will consist of the Chairman, Vice Chairman, Treasurer and Secretary; sub-committees will also be formed for specific areas such as Design/Architecture and Fundraising. We encourage everyone interested in supporting this project in ANY way, at ANY level, to join us at our Iranian Nationality Room community meeting on Dec 4th.
- Concept, design and architecture: We need to study the history of Iran and prepare a brief description and rationale for each proposed concept. We are in need of people with the knowledge of old Persian/Iranian architecture and design styles, initially as volunteer consultants.
- Web Management: The website needs to be maintained and updated; people experienced in web design and or site management and maintenance can be of great help. We also have a Facebook page called “Iranian Nationality Room.
- Funding: The long-term cost of this project will likely run in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Donations of all amounts are welcome; we will also begin a major fundraising initiative soon.
Aside from the aforementioned major requirements, all other support is welcome. Please contact us if you are interested in supporting this project in any way.
