Willamette University leases 9,100 square-feet of space in Downtown Portland for its growing graduate degree programs

JLL announced today that Willamette University has leased 9,100 square feet of space at Natural Capital Center at 721 NW 9th Ave, Portland, OR, owned by Ecotrust Properties LLC. The long-term commitment will be a new home for Willamette’s MBA for Professionals, and Masters programs in data science and computer science classes. Students will begin using the new space with Fall 2024 classes, relocating from another downtown location.

According to Willamette University President Steve Thorsett, “Willamette has been a part of Portland for 20 years, and we are thrilled to be expanding our footprint in Portland with this accessible, amenitized and collaboration-oriented space that enables us to continue to grow our graduate programs in the area. This new lease reflects both our commitment to our students and to supporting the revitalization of downtown Portland,” he added.

Said Mike Malone, JLL Senior Associate, “Willamette University wanted a convenient location closer to their PNCA campus which will be just two blocks away, and space that is enticing, efficient and flexible as their needs grow and change. We identified several locations but ultimately Natural Capital Center was a great fit, and really demonstrates their ongoing commitment to Portland.”

JLL’s Malone represented Willamette University. The landlord brokers were Nathan Sasaki and Nathan Oakley of Apex Real Estate Partners.

Willamette University's first "Portland Center” that expanded from the University’s main Salem campus opened in 2004 in approximately 5,800 square feet in the Brewery Blocks at 1120 NW Couch across from Powell's Books. It later moved into two successive locations.

Willamette has developed deep roots in the Portland community, most notably through Pacific Northwest College of Art, its premier art and design school located at 511 NW Broadway. PNCA has been a leader in coordinating the popular “First Thursday” free, public event that attracts throngs of people celebrating art, joy and community through expanded public programming including exhibitions, music, performances, artist-led special events and more..