Longtime ESa principal to focus on University projects, facilities planning and new ‘sacred spaces’ initiatives under development
Longtime architect and community leader David Minnigan is joining Belmont University as its new Architect in Residence, effective today. After a 40+ year career with Nashville-based architectural firm ESa where he worked on a diverse array of notable educational, healthcare, arts and community projects, Minnigan will now serve as the campus’ University Architect, overseeing and managing the research, development and design of architectural projects and facilities for Belmont. In addition, he will be responsible for leading the planning of initiatives around grant-funded projects being developed to explore sacred spaces. The multi-faceted role will also include cultivating funding sources and relationships to grow and support the University’s strategic pathways with an emphasis on the O’More College of Architecture & Design
“David has a long history and a passion for supporting Belmont,” said University Provost David Gregory. “His impeccable work throughout the city has greatly contributed to the successful expansion and improvement of Nashville. His level of experience in the architectural field will prove immensely beneficial to the University as our campus continues to experience growth and move toward our aim of being widely recognized as the leading Christ-centered university in the world. Without a doubt, he is an amazing addition to our campus community.”
Minnigan has diligently worked with Nashville-based architectural firm ESa for more than 40 years as an architect and principal. His first project in the late ‘80s was the original Massey College of Business building, and he has designed more than 15 buildings on campus including the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, the Curb Event Center, the Janet Ayers Academic Center and the Randall & Sadie Baskin Center, among others. His most recent campus project is the Jack C. Massey Center, which opens next month.
“I started at ESa in 1980 as a student and was hired full-time after graduation,” Minnigan said. “To leave such a fine architectural and interior design firm after 43 years has not been an easy decision. My journey to consider this started a couple of years ago, as I began praying about the next season of my life. This opportunity at Belmont brings together so many parts of my career. It feels more like a calling than a job change. I’ve been working with Belmont University consistently for 23 years – over half my career. It has been a joy to see the growth thus far, but even more exciting to see the current trajectory. Belmont is moving forward, and I am blessed to be a part. The best is yet to come for Belmont, as well as myself.”
A registered architect and interior designer, Minnigan is an accredited Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED ®) professional and an active member of the American Institute of Architects, the International Interior Design Association (IIAD) and the Society for College and University Planning, among other organizations. His resume reflects his extensive experience in the master planning and design of educational, performing arts and senior living projects, as well as many other commercial and community-focused facilities.
In his new role, Minnigan will be responsible for updating Belmont’s Master Plan to support the University's vision and Strategic Pathways, along with establishing and developing significant connections for growth, development and marketing of O’More.
A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Minnigan holds memberships on a number of professional and civic organizations and has been actively engaged in Nashville throughout his career, including serving on the boards of the Nashville Civic Design Center, the Arts & Business Council of Greater Nashville, Leadership Middle Tennessee and The Store.