James D. Ballif Structural Engineering Building Announced, USU to House Utah Earthquake Center
The James D. Ballif Structural Engineering Building, made possible by USU alumnus and distinguished civil engineering graduate James “Jim” Ballif, will help prepare the next generation of civil engineers. The expansion will rename and triple the footprint of what was the SMASH Lab, adding new research space and offices for graduate student research in earthquake and structural engineering.
A gracious donation from USU alumnus James D. Ballif will allow the Utah Earthquake Engineering Center to add new research space and offices for graduate student research in earthquake and structural engineering.
Ballif’s story begins in Preston, Idaho where his proficiency in math and science led him to Utah State University. Inspired by the technological advancements of the time—particularly the launch of Sputnik—Ballif chose to pursue civil engineering.
Utah State’s civil engineering department left a lasting impression on Ballif. "The program prepared me exceptionally well," he said, recalling how the department emphasized the professional credentials including an eight-hour exam on engineering fundamentals. “USU faculty volunteered their time on Saturdays to give our class a comprehensive review of past classwork.
Ballif believes this preparation gave him a significant advantage, helping him stand out among his peers, including graduates from more prestigious engineering schools.
In addition to funding the new facility, the James D. Ballif Teacher of the Year Award will recognize excellence in teaching within the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department with a $10,000 award. His commitment stems from a deep appreciation for the mentorship he received during his own educational journey. Professors including Dr. Calvin Clyde, Dr. Irving Dunn, and Dr. Alvin Bishop were not only academic guides but also life mentors, offering advice on career decisions, personal investments, and even life insurance, all on their own time.
"Teaching is the foundation of any educational institution," he said.
An architectural rendering of the James D. Ballif Structural Engineering Building, which is slated for construction at the site of the existing SMASH Lab. Image credit: Design West.
Looking ahead, Ballif’s contributions ensure that future generations of Utah State students will benefit from the same strong foundation that launched his career.
“I’ve had a great 40-year career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and I owe a lot of that to Utah State for the excellent engineering preparation,” he said. “Giving back is appropriate.”
The new building will also house the Utah Earthquake Engineering Center, led by Brady Cox, an expert in earthquake engineering. The center addresses a critical need: Utah currently has less than 1 percent of the engineers required to inspect buildings after a major earthquake. By training professionals and preparing students with specialized expertise, the center is working to bridge that gap.
“We’re not only addressing an immediate problem but planning for the future,” Cox said.
The center’s initiatives include retrofitting unreinforced masonry in schools, homes and critical infrastructure such as aqueducts and sewer lines. These efforts aim to reduce seismic risks and the costs associated with hardening buildings against earthquakes. As a trusted leader in earthquake engineering solutions, the center will foster collaborations across civic, industry, academic and government sectors.
Together, the James D. Ballif Structural Engineering Building and the Utah Earthquake Engineering Center represent a transformative step forward. This synergy of innovation and education ensures that Utah State University remains at the forefront of engineering excellence.
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Writer: Sydney Dahle, sydney.dahle@usu.edu, 435-797-7512
Contact: Brady Cox, brady.cox@usu.edu, 435-797-0992