The Government of Azerbaijan recently awarded EYP a contract to design its new Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy (ADA). According to the Azerbaijan Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs (also the first Ambassador to the U.S.), “The school will bring a new model into the educational system in Azerbaijan and train a new generation of Azerbaijanis.” So far, Azerbaijan has opened approximately 35-40 embassies around the world, and this new facility will be used to train staff members. The fast-track project is scheduled to open in September 2008, with the first class geared to graduate 50 students, and a projected eventual growth of 300 per class. EYP’s scope of work includes architecture and structural engineering through design development with outline specifications. An as yet unnamed international contractor and an Azerbaijani architect based in the United States will complete the project team. The selection of EYP hinged on the firm’s expertise and experience with both educational work and diplomatic (DOS/OBO) facilities.