GADSDEN– Gadsden State Community College celebrated the completion of a nearly $9 million renovation to Wallace Hall on Sept. 11.

The college marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on its Wallace Drive Campus. Employees, students, alumni, community leaders, and guests gathered to tour the updated Fine Arts facility.

Overall, the current investment totaled $8.94 million and covered renovations throughout the 38,322-square-foot building. The facility has long served as a center for the arts and a gathering place for the surrounding community.

“Wallace Hall has been an important part of Gadsden State and this community for generations,” Gadsden State President Alan Smith said. “This renovation is an investment in our students, our faculty and the future of the arts in our region. We’re proud to preserve the history of this facility while creating a modern space that will serve our College and community for many years to come.”

Renovations Transform Academic and Performance Spaces

Meanwhile, the large-scale project took more than a year to complete. Contractors performed the work in phases to limit disruptions to campus operations.

The investment included work by Hudak Construction Company Inc. and Lathan McKee Architects.

The 22,036-square-foot academic wing, originally constructed in 1967, received a complete interior renovation. Additionally, crews installed new mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems.

Crews also redesigned the interior with modern instructional spaces for photography, pottery, visual arts, choral, and band programs. As a result, students and faculty now have updated areas for classroom instruction and hands-on learning.

The project also brought improvements to the 16,286-square-foot theater and its surrounding public areas. In addition, crews installed a new brick and precast façade, redesigned the main entrance, and added structural windows.

Other work included a concrete-paved courtyard, architectural lighting, and additional exterior improvements. At the same time, the project preserved Wallace Hall’s established role in the college and community.

College and Community Leaders Mark Completion

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers joined college officials and community leaders for the celebration.

“Gadsden State is an important institution for our state and plays a significant role in preparing our people and communities for success,” Rogers said. “This community has done a tremendous job investing in this facility and ensuring it will continue to serve students and the people of Northeast Alabama for years to come.”

Later, Derrick Griffey, dean of Academic Programs and Services, said the renovations provide a stronger environment for Fine Arts students and faculty. He said the facility now better reflects the quality of work taking place in Gadsden State’s arts programs.

In turn, Griffey said the renovated space will help students develop their talents, build confidence, and prepare for future educational and career opportunities.

The ceremony also featured remarks from Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford and Mario Gallardo, chair of the Division of Fine Arts. Gadsden State alumnus and AV technician Chris McCurley, retired Gadsden City Schools Superintendent Tony Reddick, and local artist Nanda Patel also spoke.

Afterward, college leaders, elected officials, Fine Arts employees, and community members took part in the ceremonial ribbon cutting. Attendees then toured the renovated building during an open house.

Finally, information about Wallace Hall and Gadsden State’s Fine Arts programs is available at gadsdenstate.edu/finearts.