b'GRE AT ER Grow th (Cover Story)Celebrating The Largest Building In University HistoryMakola M. Abdullah, Ph.D.Opening Of The New Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons In Fall 2025June 27, 2025, marked a historic day at VSU. The University officially cut the ribbon on the newAlfredW.HarrisAcademicCommons Building, set to be the largest building in school history and a cornerstone of VSUs academic future.The new Academic Commons now serves as the home for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Education. Designed with flexibility and innovation in mind, thebuildingfeaturesmodernclassrooms, collaborative learning spaces, faculty offices, wellness and recreation spaces, and advanced technology to support teaching, research, and student success.More than just an academic building, the new AcademicCommonsisavibrant,multi-use Alfred W. Harris Academic Commonshubforlearning,creativity,andcommunity engagement. It offers students and faculty the AT AGL A NCE resources to collaborate, create, and thrive in an 174,000 square feet environment that reflects VSUs commitment to academic excellence and student-centered 49 classrooms learning.150 faculty and staff officesA black box theater and art gallery The opening of the Alfred W. Harris Academic A gymnasium, swimming pool, and elevated indoor track Commons Building in Fall 2025 ushers in a new Cardio and dance studios era for academic life at Virginia State University. 5 E G A PDedicated television and recording studiosI M P A C T R E P O R T - 2 0 2 32 5'