University Hall renovation project to begin December 2023

A bronze statue of John Purdue, the university’s benefactor and namesake, sits on a bench near University Hall — where it’s said that he often spent time during the construction more than 150 years ago. Upon his request, Purdue was buried in front of the building he personally helped fund, and his grave serves as a monument to him and the university he loved. 

Opened in 1877, University Hall is the only remaining building from Purdue’s original six-building campus. Initially called the Main Building, the hall has been used for classrooms, was home to Purdue’s first library and a chapel and once served as the president’s office. Alumni old and new recognize the Purdue icon that has been there through the university’s small steps and giant leaps.

University Hall was last remodeled in 1961, and it’s time to renovate and restore this historic Purdue landmark so that it may continue to impact future generations of Boilermakers. The renovation project will incorporate a complete restoration of the five-story, 34,200-square-foot building, including updated classrooms, a study and collaboration area, and more efficient student services spaces. Construction will begin in December 2023, with a planned completion date of July 2025.

The renovation of University Hall is part of a larger initiative that will encompass renovations in Stanley Coulter and Beering halls as well. Updates include modern working and study environments, the creation of a 180-seat active learning classroom, and a languages and culture hub, providing a new home for the Department of English. Once this project is completed, the occupants of Heavilon Hall will relocate to these remodeled spaces. Heavilon Hall will then be razed; plans for the space will be announced at a later date.

To learn more about how you can be a part of the University Hall renovation project, visit purdueforlife.org/university-hall and complete the interest form.