No Decision on Demolition of Norfolk State’s Oldest Building
Written by HBCU Digest, Posted in Leadership, Norfolk State University, Virginia
Norfolk State University officials recently told students and alumni that no decision has been made on the demolition of G.W.C. Brown Memorial Hall, the university’s oldest building.
The message, sent via email in late July, followed a circulated petition opposing the razing, which gathered more than 100 signatures.
NSU President Tony Atwater told the Virginian-Pilot that he supports a new building instead of demolition, and that costs for renovation of Brown Memorial would be the same as a rebuild, about $24 million.
Atwater said he understands the sentimental feelings among some alumni, but he’s heard constant complaints from faculty and staff about roof leaks, poor ventilation, and heating and air-conditioning problems. Brown Hall is named after George William Clement Brown, who was one of NSU’s founders. Atwater said he’s spoken to many alumni and the Brown family, who support a new building.
