Virginia State University has opened the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons, the largest facility in the school’s 143-year history. The 175,000-square-foot building houses the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Education and is designed to support academic programs, student engagement and community activities. 

“The completion of the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons is a defining moment for Virginia State University,” said Kevin Davenport, senior vice president for finance and administration. “From the beginning, this project was more than bricks and mortar—it was a bold investment in our students, faculty, and future.” 

The facility includes classrooms and offices as well as amenities such as a swimming pool, gymnasium, six basketball courts, an elevated indoor running track, a black box theater, dance studios, an art gallery and broadcast and recording studios. 

Construction began in 2022 and was led by Skanska USA. Classes are scheduled to start in January. 

“This project is an investment for the next generation of scholars,” said Mark Balling, executive vice president responsible for Skanska’s Mid-Atlantic building operations. 

The building, named for the university’s founder, Alfred W. Harris, represents a significant expansion for VSU and a central hub for collaboration, creativity and student activity.