Virginia State University Opens Landmark Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons – The Largest Building In Its History

The new building, named after the University’s Founder, is a bold symbol of innovation, opportunity, and the Greater at VSU.

Virginia State University has reached a historic milestone with the completion and opening of the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons, the largest and most transformative facility in the University’s 143-year history. At 175,000 square feet, the building represents not only a physical expansion but also a defining step forward in VSU’s vision for academic excellence, student engagement, and community impact.

Faculty began moving into the new building this week, and in January, students will step into a new era of learning when classes begin inside the dynamic space.

"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 GREATER opportunities and experiences that will unfold here are limitless."

The facility houses the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Education, serving as a hub for collaboration, creativity, innovation, and as a destination for student engagement and community activity.  Beyond classrooms and offices, the building is designed to enrich the whole student experience with world-class amenities, including:

  • A swimming pool, gymnasium, six basketball courts, and an elevated indoor running track
  • Creative and performance spaces such as a black box theater, dance studios, and an art gallery
  • State-of-the-art broadcast and recording studios for next-generation media and communications

Construction of the 175,000-square-foot facility began in 2022 and was led by contractor Skanska USA.

"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. "We are honored to have partnered with VSU on this project, a school rich in history, to bring their vision to life in a way that reflects the institution’s roots and highlights their standing as an academic leader."

Students and a fountain in front of the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons building

The Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons, named after the University’s Founder, is a bold symbol of innovation, opportunity, and the Greater at VSU. It is more than just the University’s largest building—it is a bold statement in the center of campus which speaks to VSU's momentum, vision, and unwavering commitment to preparing students to lead, create, and thrive.