JBU Announces Lead Gift for Renovation of Oldest Building

John Brown University announced Tuesday a $3 million lead gift for the renovation of its J. Alvin Brown residence hall.

The building is the oldest structure on the Siloam Springs campus, according to a news release.

“With this renovation, J. Alvin … will be preserved for the benefit of generations of men yet to come to JBU,” university president Chip Pollard said in the release. “We are deeply grateful for the anonymous lead gift, and we look forward to the additional support that will be needed to make this critical renovation a reality.”

The total cost for the renovation is projected to be $5.5 million, and vice president for student development and facilities Steve Beers said that cost would be less than razing the dorm and building comparable housing. A portion of the lead gift has been designated as a matching challenge, meaning funds contributed by other donors will be doubled by the lead gift, up to $1.25 million.

According to the release, the 93-year-old men’s dormitory will have its rooms converted into modern suites with features similar to the school’s newer residence halls. Construction is expected to begin this summer and completed in about a year.

Joseph Alvin Brown was the younger brother of the university’s namesake founder.