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Voorhees University Awarded National Park Service Grant for Historic St. James Building Renovation

Denmark, SC — Voorhees University is proud to announce that it is one of 15 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to receive a significant grant from the National Park Service (NPS). The grant will be utilized to renovate the historic St. James Building, which currently houses the university’s business and entrepreneurship program.

According to Esther Brown, Director of Sponsored Research and co-program coordinator for the grant,  the building is in dire need of several critical upgrades. “The St. James Building requires a new roof and HVAC system, updated restrooms, leak repairs, and various modifications to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act,” said Brown.

The original St. James Building, a two-story brick structure, was constructed in 1932 and received an addition in 1976. This renovation project is vital to preserving the building’s historical integrity while ensuring it meets modern standards for safety and accessibility.

The National Park Service has allocated $10,670,000 to 15 projects across eight states as part of the Historic Preservation Fund’s HBCU grant program. This program is dedicated to the repair and preservation of historic structures on HBCU campuses.  

NPS Director Chuck Sams emphasized the importance of preserving the heritage of HBCUs. “It’s vital for America’s HBCUs to preserve their vibrant history, ensuring that the places and the events that happened there are not forgotten,” Sams stated.

Beyond the St. James Building, the university acknowledges the need for further campus-wide improvements to include Wright Hall and Bedford Hall. We are actively working on obtaining more grants to assist in achieving this vision,” Brown added. 

This grant represents a significant step forward in Voorhees University’s ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and preserve its historical legacy, ensuring a better learning environment for current and future students.

For more information, please contact Esther Brown, Director of Sponsored Research at ebrown1@voorhees.edu.

St. James Building
199 Academic Circle
Denmark, SC  29042

About Voorhees University:  Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Driven by a mission to cultivate well-rounded graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. Voorhees University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. More details are available at the Voorhees website (www.voorhees.edu). Questions about the accreditation of Voorhees University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org)

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