Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

University of the Ozarks Starts Construction on New Residence Hall

  • By Matt Jones
  • 02/22/24

The University of the Ozarks in Clarksville, Ark., recently began construction on a new $27-million residence hall, according to a university news release. The facility will stand four stories tall, include space for 250 beds, and will cover 64,000 square feet. It’s scheduled to open in time for the beginning of the fall 2025 fall semester.

Funding comes from a tax-exempt bonds issuance for $24 million from Crews and Associates, as well as a loan from the Pearl M. and Julia J. Harmon Foundation for $3 million.

“The construction of our new residence hall exemplifies the unwavering commitment of our university to the success and well-being of our students,” said Gloria Arcia, Ed.D., executive vice president and CFO. “This project not only enhances campus life but also signifies a significant stride towards realizing our broader vision outlined in the campus master plan—fostering an environment where students can thrive and reach their fullest potential.”

The new residence hall will mainly serve first-year students, and it will be divided into 10 housing communities. Amenities include single- and double-occupancy rooms, a community kitchen, collaborative space, and common areas that double as shelter-in-place spaces. It will also include features like a gaming lounge, laundry rooms, an office for residential staff, and a professional staff apartment, the news release reports.

“My colleagues and I are incredibly excited about the construction of a new home for Ozarks’ future freshmen,” said Vice President for Student Success Dody Pelts. “The residential experience provides one of the most impactful learning opportunities in higher education. This design will encourage students to create lasting friendships, learn personal responsibility, and cultivate independence while living in a safe, inclusive environment. We are thrilled to be able to offer modernized accommodations for our students and can’t wait to welcome them into the Ozarks community.”

The university partnered with Credo Design Architects for the project’s design and Kinco Constructors, LLC, for its construction.

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Montclair State University Debuts New VR Facility

    Montclair State University in Montclair, N.J., recently announced the completion of a new virtual reality learning facility developed in partnership with Dreamscape Learn, according to a news release. The 2,450-square-foot lab space is inside the College of Communication and Media building and will serve students pursuing careers in digital media, virtual reality, and content creation.

  • Secret to Efficient, On-Time School Infrastructure & Modernization Projects is All in the Preparation

    Warmer weather and longer days make summer the ideal time for construction and modernization projects at educational facilities. School boards and construction firms must coordinate effectively to ensure that these projects do not extend even a single day into the school year and impede classroom operation.

  • Lawrence Group Announces Three New Hires

    Integrated planning and design firm Lawrence Group, based in St. Louis, Mo., recently welcomed three new staff members, according to a news release.

  • Designing Third Spaces That Do What AI Can't

    In 2026, education is evolving faster than ever. With AI reshaping everything from lesson planning to personalized instruction, schools and universities are turning their attention to what AI can’t replicate: spaces that foster collaboration, community, and creativity.