What’s old sometimes stays old but gets a revitalization — as in the case of Athens State University’s hosting of a ground-breaking ceremony to kick off the renovation of Brown Hall May 14.

This iconic, columned three-story building that stands directly behind Founders Hall and was constructed in 1912 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. It is the second oldest building on the Athens State campus behind Founders Hall.

Brown Hall is named in honor of Florence Brown, the 21-year-old staff member who remained with young women on campus who were too ill to travel as a result of the 1909 typhoid epidemic that claimed the lives of 15 students. Brown also succumbed to the epidemic on Nov. 5, 1909.

The vision for the future of Brown Hall, officials said, is to transform the building into a space for our growing health-focused academic programs, including Health Science, Health Science Management, Healthcare Management, Biology, Psychology, Behavioral Sciences, and Nursing. Brown Hall was built for students in honor of a woman who gave her life in service to students — university officials said they want to renew that mission and utilize Brown Hall to serve students once again.

About Athens State

UniversityFounded in 1822, Athens State is Alabama’s oldest continuously-operating institution of higher learning. As one of only a few “upper division” universities in the entire country, Athens State is a destination for transfer students and students with more than 36 hours of credit who may have paused their education and are seeking to finish their degree. ASU offers more than 50 undergraduate degree programs and options in addition to graduate programs. Visit www.athens.edu.