Under the bright Alabama sky, Tuskegee University celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated Olivia Davidson Hall on Friday. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant transformation in student housing, and it featured partnerships with Turner Construction Company, which managed the $44 million renovation project.

Named after Olivia Davidson, the second wife of Booker T. Washington, the university’s first principal, the hall reflects her legacy as a female empowerment and education champion. The updated residential building can accommodate 146 students and offers contemporary two- and four-bedroom suite-style units.

Inside The Hall

The renovation includes modern amenities designed to enhance student safety and comfort. Olivia Davidson Hall features card-key and key fob access, surveillance cameras monitoring all entrances, classroom and study areas, and laundry facilities. “It is a privilege to join you and the Tuskegee community for the ribbon cutting of the transformed Olivia Davidson Hall,” said Peter Davoren, CEO of Turner Construction Company, during the ceremony. “This historic residence is now a modern community forward space and an exceptional environment for living and learning.”

Davoren took a moment to recognize Thaddeus Smith, a senior project manager at Turner and a Tuskegee alum known for his accomplishments in football who played a vital role in bringing the project to fruition. 

Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO of Tuskegee University, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, “It’s important to note that what we are really talking about is teamwork.” He acknowledged the concerted efforts of local figures, including Tuskegee Mayor Tony Haygood and Trustee Natalie Knight, who contributed to this initiative and other campus improvements.

Highlighting the importance of safety, Dr. Brown reinforced Tuskegee’s commitment to creating a secure living environment for students. “As we cut the ribbon and go through here room by room, our parents will be happy and proud that their children are coming to a new, safe place to live and learn,” he said. This emphasis on security is especially relevant as all students in Olivia Davidson Hall must use their IDs and key fobs for their individual rooms to enter the building. Furthermore, similar security measures will be implemented across every other residence hall and office building on campus throughout the year.