Renovations at Alabama’s Tuskegee University shine light on two important Black figures
Article written by Alabama News Center
Two residential halls at Tuskegee University are getting a major facelift, and their renovation is also helping expand awareness about the two pioneering Black figures whose names are attached to the buildings.
Officials at the historically Black university described the $44 million overhaul to Lewis Adams Hall and Olivia Davidson Hall as a “commitment to enhance the student on-campus experience.” The renovations, which began last month, are expected to be completed in August, just in time for fall semester.
The revived Lewis Adams Hall, which spans over 52,000 square feet, will offer 152 beds. The restored Olivia Davidson Hall, at nearly 39,000 square feet, will provide 146 beds.
The project is being funded by Rice Capital, which specializes in supporting projects at historically Black colleges and universities (HCBUs) and the U.S. Department of Education. The project will transform the old, traditional dormitory spaces into “contemporary 2-bed and 4-bed suite-style units,” university officials said. The buildings will also offer new amenities, including classroom/study areas, laundry facilities, shared spaces and a post office.
The names attached to the two dormitories hark back to the early days of what was originally called Tuskegee State Normal School for Colored Teachers. Indeed, Adams’ connection to Tuskegee goes back to before its founding in 1881.
Residence halls at Tuskegee University named after Olivia Davidson and Lewis Adams are getting major upgrades. (University of Texas, Library of Congress)
Officials at Tuskegee University said the renovations to the two historic residence halls underscore the institution’s “dedication to providing state-of-the-art living facilities that exceed modern comfort, safety and academic success standards.
“These historical buildings, integral to the university’s heritage, are poised to enter a new era,” Tuskegee officials said in a news release.
“Olivia Davidson Hall has been a beacon of female empowerment and education since its establishment,” the news release said. “Lewis Adams Hall, reflecting the university’s growth, has long stood as a symbol of academic and residential life on campus.
“The renovation … showcases the university’s proactive approach to student welfare and academic excellence.”