Kearney Hall opens on OSU campus

On May 15, 2009, Oregon State University celebrated the grand opening of Kearney Hall, recognizing the successful $12 million renovation of Apperson Hall.

The renovation of the structure built in 1898 has retained the historic exterior while being transformed into a bright, energy-efficient and modern classroom, laboratory, and research facility.

Kearney Hall now boasts a completely new interior, a central light court, 106-seat auditorium, and state of the art classrooms, as well as exposed ceilings and "windows" into walls that will provide students with real-world examples of structural, mechanical, and electrical features.

The major renovation was made possible by private gifts, including more than $4 million in support from Lee and Connie Kearney of Vancouver, Wash. (pictured above). Lee Kearney, a former director and division manager of Peter Kiewit Sons' Co., earned his degree in civil engineering from OSU in 1963, and Connie Kearney began higher education at OSU before earning undergraduate and law degrees at other institutions.

The Kearneys were joined by more than 800 alumni and other friends of the university who donated to the project. Ron Adams, dean of the college, noted, "It's a wonderful way to honor the history of the College of Engineering, even as we continue our efforts to grow, expand, and make the college one of the nation's premier programs in engineering education and research."

Learn More

College of Engineering's "Apperson to Kearney" website

View photos from the grand opening