Long before they make lifesaving decisions at a patient’s bedside, teach a science
class, submit an NSF grant proposal, or study galaxies far away, students at ETSU
hone their early science skills in Brown Hall.
Serving as the university’s science building since it was first erected more than
50 years ago, Brown Hall is home to the departments of Biological Sciences, Physics
and Astronomy, and Chemistry. Given ETSU’s presence as a popular destination for students
pursuing a career in the sciences or the health sciences field, aspiring researchers
and clinicians clock many long hours in the classrooms and laboratories of Brown Hall.
Following many years without any significant renovations taking place, Brown Hall
is about to experience a once-in-a-lifetime makeover.
Funding from the State of Tennessee was recently awarded to begin extensive enhancements
to the teaching labs, classrooms, offices, research areas, and collaborative spaces
inside Brown Hall. This renovation will be completed in two phases, with funding already
awarded for the first phase focusing on the building’s north side. This $47.7 million
project will center on facilities within Biological Sciences and Chemistry.
ETSU is seeking approximately $45.9 million funding for the second phase to provide
needed enhancements for Physics and Astronomy as well as combined research and teaching
spaces for all units.
“Not only do our science and pre-health professions majors take courses in Brown Hall, but our non-science students also enroll in classes to satisfy general education core requirements in Brown Hall too. So, for nearly all of our students, Brown Hall becomes part of their ETSU story,” said Dr. Joe Bidwell, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
“We want all of our students to have access to state-of-the-art equipment and a learning environment that is second to none. Now we have the opportunity to do just that.”
Bidwell noted that each of the two phases will have a private fundraising requirement,
with $1.9 million needed to complete phase one of the project. ETSU is currently meeting
with alumni and friends to raise the matching funds.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2024.
To discuss how your gifts can transform the experience of ETSU students in Brown Hall, contact Denise Asbury at asburyp@etsu.edu or 423-439-5676 or Mona Salyer at salyerrd@etsu.edu or 423-439-5775.