Cornish Hall and Van Hoesen Hall, multi-wing buildings are currently undergoing significant renovations, with a $27 million project aiming to complete the renovations by January 2026.
About the Halls
Cornish Hall and Van Hoesen Hall, built in 1962, spans 124,176 square feet and was recently renovated in 2009. The building, named after William Cornish, former head of the Math Department and Principal of Campus School, and Ella Vanhoesen, former teacher, and principal of the School of Practice. The facility prior to construction housed various offices such as The Learning Center, EOP, Emergency Squad, Liberty Partnership, METS, Health Promotion, Student Disability, Student Health Service, C.U.R.E., and ROTC. Along with departments such as Career Services, Communication Studies, Counseling Center, Foundations and Social Advocacy, Literature Department, and Residential Life and Housing. Temporary changes will be made, moving offices to other buildings on campus.
About the Renovation
The building’s interiors are in poor condition and its mechanical, electrical, and plumbing distribution systems are nearing the end of their useful lives. The renovation will modernize the former gym, classrooms, and shared spaces, including hazardous materials decline and other upgrades to meet current codes, including improved handicap accessibility. The project will also address the lack of fire sprinkler systems in most wings. C-Wing will undergo renovations to increase interior space and include an exit stair, entry ways, along with an elevator. The site will be closed during the approximate year and a half construction window, and a temporary makeshift asphalt walkway will connect Cornish and Van Hoesen’s first floors. Signs will be updated to ensure safety, and air quality testing will be conducted to maintain health standards in the buildings. The renovation site will be closed during the construction window.
Future of Van Hoesen and Cornish
The new floor plan at the university aims to centralize student media clubs, including radio, newspaper, and television stations, into one location for increased collaboration. The renovations aim to create a greater overlap between classroom learning and media lab activities, allowing students to focus on their studies in the classrooms and apply their knowledge in the media labs. A centralized location can boost campus collaboration and interest in various clubs, as many run-on student participations. This will improve the overall collaboration and efficiency of the campus’s media resources. The project will consolidate the Communications and Media Studies Department, provide centralized spaces for Counseling and Wellness Services, Disability Resources, and the Educational Opportunity Program, and enhance energy efficiency and drainage. The project will also improve acoustics and infrastructure.