Under Construction

_{A new classically styled, four-story building will provide space for undergraduate research efforts, as well as cutting-edge classrooms and faculty offices} 

In 2015, Longwood unveiled a new comprehensive campus Master Plan for the coming decade. Here’s an update on the progress of two noteworthy projects included in the plan.

Admissions building

First impressions are said to last forever— and that’s especially true for college visits by prospective students and their families. At Longwood, the admissions office—most often the first stop for prospective students— has been in less-than-adequate spaces for the past five years, from a cramped house off campus to a tucked-away hallway in Lancaster Hall. But in 18 months, that problem will be solved when admissions staff move into a stunning new building directly across High Street from Ruffner Hall, with views of Longwood’s most recognized building and new iconic gateway.

The project, which was designed with the goal of preserving as much green space as possible, also includes a monument to Farmville’s consequential role in the development of American democracy and its civil rights history, which will stand at the corner of High and Randolph streets.

“This will really be the front door of campus,” said Dean of Admissions Jason Faulk. We often say that Longwood sells itself, and this building will double down on that idea. We’ll have a big, new building that looks like a seamless part of the historic part of campus, but will also feature a modern interior that will set Longwood apart from other universities.”

Ground broke on the new admissions building in May and is expected to be completed by summer 2019.

_{The new admissions building will be located directly across High Street from Ruffner Hall.}

Academic building

The last new academic building on campus, the Center for Communication Studies and Theater, opened nearly a decade ago. In the intervening years, Longwood’s undergraduate enrollment has grown by 10 percent, and several new areas of study have been added, resulting in squeezed classroom and research space.

In response, Longwood is constructing a new classically styled, four-story academic building that will be located directly behind French Hall, where many alumni remember tennis courts. The building will be home to undergraduate research efforts, including a large research space for growing programs in health, athletic training and recreation, and neuroscience studies. Cutting-edge classrooms and other learning spaces, as well as a sizeable number of faculty offices, will also be located in the building.

“As Civitae—the new core curriculum— is integrated into campus, we are excited that the integrative learning aspect that forms its foundation will have a true home in this new building,” said Dr. Larissa Fergeson, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Faculty and staff have needed more space to continue both their important work and provide more opportunities for collaboration with students. We’re excited to see work start on the building and look forward to the work we will do within its walls.”

Ground will break on the new academic building this month. It’s expected to open in 2020.