Academy Hall was originally constructed in 1923 and served as Public School 14 for Troy elementary school students for nearly 70 years. After purchasing the building in 1990, Rensselaer renamed it Academy Hall in recognition of its legacy as a school.

And the university has now established the building as more than a legacy in recognition only. Through a major revitalization effort by the Institute over the past two years, the Indiana limestone-trimmed structure, on the corner of 15th Street and College Avenue, has been transformed back to its roots in directly serving students.

With the $6.2 million renovation project recently completed, Academy Hall is now a one-stop location for Rensselaer student services.

“The Academy Hall renovation highlights the commitment of faculty and staff of RPI to its students,” said Grand Marshal Michael Dillon during the dedication ceremony in December.

A range of student services have been consolidated under one roof in Academy Hall, which formerly housed a hodgepodge of departments mostly displaced by various construction projects across campus.

Now the space is occupied by the Dean of Students Office, which includes the offices of Minority Student Affairs, International Services for Students and Scholars, Disability Services for Students, and Greek Life. The building also houses the offices of the Vice President for Student Life, the Office of the First-Year Experience, the Gallagher Student Health Center, the Archer Center for Student Leadership Development, and the offices of Student Records and Financial Services.

A number of alumni were involved in the Academy Hall renovations. Scott Allen from Woodward Connor Gillies & Seleman Architects, based in Albany, was the project architect. The company also includes Gregory Seleman ’72, president, and Kurt Woodward ’75, vice president. In addition, Marc Marchessault ’77 is president of Albany-based Baron Construction, also involved in the project. Baron Construction is owned by Robert Baron ’72.

Major renovations included air conditioning and heating, new furniture and equipment, and the addition of an elevator, stairways, and accessible restrooms. Also, the auditorium was restored and refinished.

“Academy Hall is also becoming an anchor for the entire new 15th Street corridor, where projects large and small are creating a new campus ‘Main Street,’ especially for student-centered activities,” said President Jackson during her remarks at the dedication.

Published April 1, 2005