Opened: October 2019Architects: VMDO Architects
“Paul Jennings’ story is a courageous, deliberate and successful pursuit of the right to rise.”
These words are prominent in the Paul Jennings Hall lobby at James Madison University. The hall is named in honor of the man who was President James Madison's enslaved personal servant and who, after he earned his freedom, wrote of his experiences in what is considered to be the first memoir about life in the White House. In a time when many buildings are being renamed to erase racist blemishes on campus histories, this one includes a statement from Raleigh Marshall, a descendant of Jennings and an alumnus of James Madison University, that reads, "Jennings' story is one of relentless perseverance, being born into slavery but ending his life as a devoted father, property owner, abolitionist and respected community member. His story is intellectually engaging, inspirational and important to know to have a more complete and honest understanding of our shared history. I hope that the generations to come will reflect on his life and gain new perspectives as they come of age and begin to navigate their own worlds and challenges."
As a student residence, the hall tells a compelling story as well. It features 500 beds, two classrooms, group study spaces, grab-and-go dining, and a 2,500-square-foot multipurpose space called The Great Room. The hall houses both first-year and returning students and has been designed with their sometimes competing needs in mind. As one example, the restrooms are community-based, which draws students out of their room, but they are made up of smaller private bathrooms, each with its own sink, shower, and commode inside an actual room.
The twin wings of the complex are broken down into a mixture of rooms and community space that includes kitchens and lounges while just outside the doors are manicured courtyards outfitted with cooking grills. Large windows provide ample natural light, and plentiful soft-seating lends itself to planning and impromptu student gatherings. In addition, the hall is home to the Sports and Recreation Management Residential Living Community, which makes sense considering its proximity to the campus recreation center and athletic fields.
— James A. Baumann