Selma University in Selma, Ala., has been awarded $750,000 from the National Park Service for repairs and renovations to Pollard Hall.
The Selma Times-Journal reports that the funding is part of a $9.7 million investment by the Park Service to preserve historic structures on the campuses of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Pollard Hall was built in 1916 and served as an administrative center for visitors and a meeting place for Black educators like Booker T. Washington. It was also home to several of the university’s presidents.
The building is named for former university president, Robert T. Pollard, who helped Selma University expand its campus.
The Park Service says the grant project will help repair Pollard Hall’s roof, HVAC system, and electrical and plumbing systems. It also will provide funds to install an elevator.
“These grants enable historic educational institutions to preserve the story of African American education and the campuses where new experiences and stories continue to evolve today,” National Park Services Director Chuck Sams said. “Through the Historically Black Colleges and Universities grants program, the National Park Service supports our HBCUs in the preservation of their historic campus structures and history.”
