Salisbury, MD – With the passage of the State of Maryland’s Fiscal 2025 budget, Salisbury University received an additional $19.2 million over the next three years to help fund the renovation of SU’s Blackwell Hall into a campus hub for student services.
Originally proposed by Governor Wes Moore in January, the funding will cover approximately one-third of the project’s $60 million estimated cost, allowing the project to move forward without the use of SU reserve funds, which can be allocated for additional campus needs.
“When the new Blackwell Hall opens in fall 2026, it will welcome both current and future students as a one-stop shop for everything from admissions to advising, and much more,” said SU President Carolyn Ringer Lepre. “This building will serve the SU community for many generations to come, and we thank Governor Moore and the State Legislature for their support in making this facility a reality.”
Prior to the budget’s passage, the University had considered reducing the scope of plans for the center, slated to become one of the first net-zero buildings in the University System of Maryland. Thanks to this funding, the facility remains on track to operate with no net carbon footprint, continuing SU’s longstanding commitment to sustainability. Features will include an underground geothermal heating and cooling system, similar to those in use at three of SU’s residence halls and a portion of Perdue Hall.
Named for the University’s second president, Dr. Jefferson Blackwell, the current building was constructed in 1957 as the campus’ library, continuing in that capacity until the opening of the Patricia R. Guerrieri Academic Commons in 2016. Blackwell Hall then became flex space, most recently serving as the home of SU’s Academic Advising Center, dance studio and the Charles A. Wright Multicultural Center for Equity, Justice and Inclusion, all three of which have moved to new locations on campus ahead of the renovation.
When it reopens, the building will have an expanded footprint to house relocated offices including the SU Counseling Center, Advising Center, Registrar’s Office, Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, Dean of Students Office and more, centralizing most student support systems on campus.
It also will serve as the hew home of the SU Admissions Office, with features including a campus visitors center and gathering space for tours and open houses. The new area, which tentatively will include a multistory glass atrium, is expected to provide a visual welcome for prospective students and families as part of their initial SU experience.
Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at www.salisbury.edu.
