The eye-catching rotunda of Ohio University's new lecture hall facility filled to capacity on Friday night at the unofficial opening of the new building. The facility, 50 Richland Ave., will officially open in January for classes.
This is one of the classiest and elegant buildings on campus now. It's a signature facility and I'm thrilled with it
said Leonard Raley, vice president for university advancement.
Architecturally, the building follows a classical Georgian structure, but inside, the $14 million smart classroom building takes a more modern approach. Each of the four lecture halls, which can accommodate between 100 and 225 students, is equipped with data screens and high-speed Internet connections.
The building is architecturally finished, but the technological aspects have not been completed yet, said John Kotowski, director of facilities planning.
In addition to the classrooms, there is ample space for meetings in the Governance Room, which will be completed in February and will accommodate the Board of Trustees and faculty and administrative senates.
The most easily identifiable section of the building - the rotunda - can fit 400 people and will host many events after the dedication in January.
It's a hosting venue and a conferencing venue for faculty and students said Pam Callahan, director of capital planning and facilities planning. Maybe it'll be trade shows maybe career fairs or maybe some kind of science fair.
OU President Robert Glidden said the rotunda can be very festive. He also said he was proud to present the building as a new entrance to the university from Richland Avenue.
I've been coming here for two years now and to walk in here tonight has just given me a glimpse into our future as a university
Raley said.
More than 20 classes are scheduled in the new lecture hall for Winter Quarter including courses in biology, chemistry, health, physics and sports sciences.
The Board of Trustees is expected to name the structure soon.
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Katie Primm
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Ohio University's new lecture hall is located at 50 Richland Ave. and had its unofficial opening on Friday night. The facility will officially open for classes in January.
