GADSDEN, AL — Gadsden State Community College marked the completion of a nearly $9 million renovation of Wallace Hall Fine Arts Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Sept. 11 at the college’s Wallace Drive Campus.
The $8.94 million project renovated the 38,322-square-foot facility, which serves as a center for fine arts instruction, performances and community events. The work took more than a year and was completed in phases to limit disruptions to campus operations.
The project included a complete interior renovation of Wallace Hall’s 22,036-square-foot academic wing, originally constructed in 1967. The interior was gutted and rebuilt with new mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems, along with redesigned instructional areas for photography, pottery, visual arts, choral and band programs.
Renovations also included the facility’s 16,286-square-foot theater and surrounding public spaces. Exterior improvements included a new brick and precast façade, redesigned main entrance, structural windows, concrete-paved courtyard and architectural lighting.
Hudak Construction Company Inc. and Lathan McKee Architects were involved in the project.
“Wallace Hall has been an important part of Gadsden State and this community for generations,” Gadsden State President Alan Smith said. “This renovation is an investment in our students, our faculty and the future of the arts in our region.”
U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers joined college officials, students, alumni and community leaders for the ceremony.
“Gadsden State is an important institution for our state and plays a significant role in preparing our people and communities for success,” Rogers said. “This community has done a tremendous job investing in this facility and ensuring it will continue to serve students and the people of Northeast Alabama for years to come.”
Derrick Griffey, dean of Academic Programs and Services, said the renovated facility provides Fine Arts students and faculty with an environment designed to better support the programs housed there.
“These improvements give our Fine Arts students and faculty a space that better reflects the quality of the work happening here every day,” Griffey said. “Wallace Hall is more than a building. It is a place where students develop their talents, gain confidence and prepare to take the next step in their education and careers.”
Others participating in the ceremony included Gadsden Mayor Craig Ford; Mario Gallardo, chair of Gadsden State’s Division of Fine Arts; Gadsden State alumnus and AV technician Chris McCurley; retired Gadsden City Schools Superintendent Tony Reddick; and local artist Nanda Patel.
Following the ceremony, college leaders, elected officials, Fine Arts faculty and staff and community members participated in the ribbon cutting. Wallace Hall was then opened for attendees to tour the renovated spaces.
Wallace Hall serves as both an academic facility and a venue for performing and visual arts programs and community events.
