UVA Wise Prepares to Welcome Students Home with Campus Improvements

While many students are spending the summer away from campus, crews across the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) have been hard at work making improvements that will greet Cavaliers when they return for the fall semester. From upgraded residence halls to new recreational spaces, this summer's projects reflect the College's continued investment in creating an exceptional student experience.

One of the most exciting additions is the construction of a new two-court pickleball facility, a $250,000 investment that opened in July. The courts, funded through donor support, provide students with another opportunity to stay active and build community. 

The College has also completed improvements to the Winston Ely Health and Wellness Center, providing students with enhanced opportunities to exercise and prioritize their well-being. 

"I am so thankful for the benefactor support to enhance the campus for our students," said Chancellor Donna P. Henry. "The improvements to the Ely Wellness Center, along with the new pickleball courts, will provide great opportunities for our students to exercise and stay healthy. It's hard to pick a favorite enhancement, as each project contributes to the overall campus experience."

McCraray Residence Hall has also undergone one of the largest renovation projects on campus this summer, including a $750,000 investment in bathroom renovations, upgraded piping and new showers throughout the west wing. New furniture for student rooms and common areas have also helped to transform the building's community spaces along with new lobby ceiling fans, fresh paint, arcade games and a refreshed game room featuring ping pong and pool tables. 

In Culbertson Residence Hall, a flooring project replaced carpet with vinyl tile flooring in every student room. Andrew J. Still and Lois Ann Roark Still Residence Hall also received a refresh with patching, painting and updates to multiple student rooms.

Students living in Martha Randolph Residence Hall will enjoy new showers with updated hardware, improved water flow, better drainage and glass shower doors. Student comfort is also increasing in Asbury and Thompson Residence Halls, where new heating and cooling systems were installed in each apartment. 

Beyond individual residence halls, every washer and dryer across campus has been replaced with brand-new machines that allow students to monitor availability and receive cycle notifications through a mobile app. The service is at no cost to students through UVA Wise's partnership with Caldwell & Gregory, with housing investing approximately $44,000 annually so students incur no additional laundry costs.

Overseeing many of these projects is Julie Scott, director of residence life and conferences and events, who has worked closely with campus facilities staff and contractors to ensure renovations remain on schedule for students' return.

"Our goal is to create living spaces where students feel comfortable, supported and proud to call home," Scott said. "Every improvement we make helps create a better experience from the moment they move in."

The upgrades are part of UVA Wise's ongoing commitment to maintaining a campus that reflects the excellence of its academic programs and vibrant student life. Whether through modernized residence halls, expanded recreational opportunities, upgraded athletic facilities or improved student amenities, each project contributes to a campus environment where students can learn, connect and thrive.

"As students arrive this fall, we want them to immediately notice the care and investment that has gone into preparing for their return," Chancellor Henry adds. "There's nothing better than welcoming them back to spaces that are refreshed, improved and ready for another great year."

When move-in day arrives, students will return to more than familiar faces and favorite traditions, they will find renovations that continue to evolve with their needs in mind.

This summer's improvements represent well over $1.5 million in campus investments and are more than construction projects: they're a promise that UVA Wise remains dedicated to providing an outstanding residential experience and a campus where every student feels welcomed from the moment they arrive.