Soka University
In 1995 Soka University acquired a 103-acre site in Aliso Viejo, overlooking Wood Canyon, for a private, nonprofit, four-year liberal arts college. The Aliso Viejo campus opened May 3, 2001, with its first entrance ceremony for a first-year class of 120 students from 18 countries and 18 states. Founders Hall, the centerpiece of the campus, stands as a counter-example to the trend away from neo-classical architecture over the last 20-30 years. While the dome and wings of the hall are decidedly in a more post-modern style, the entrance portico stands out as one of the few neo-classical structures in Orange County. As such, the Founders Hall might appear to be a slice of a traditional East Coast university in Aliso Viejo. The building houses the Founders Hall Art Gallery and meeting, small event and lecture space.
Aliso Viejo, Orange County
Photographer: John Bare