Virginia State University Constructs Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons

Virginia State University is constructing the $120 million Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons in Petersburg. Designed by EYP Architecture & Engineering, the 174,000-sf building will consolidate the College of Education and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences into one interactive complex. Collocating a total of 15 departments, this transformative hub of intellectual activity will provide over 40 technology-rich classrooms, 110 faculty offices, group and individual study spaces, a black box theatre, a media and communications center, and an exhibition gallery. A sweeping glass façade will offer inspiring views of interior learning venues to showcase the university's commitment to student success. 

As the new home of the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, the structure will feature a state-of-the-art gymnasium and swimming pool to enhance student performance and wellbeing. Representing the largest project ever constructed on campus, the Harris Academic Commons will be a vibrant destination for interdisciplinary collaboration for the entire VSU community. Ground was broken in April of 2022 and completion is expected in early 2025.