An aerial view of campus.

Watch Us Grow

Our donors have a tremendous impact on the quality of our programs, teaching and facilities. The campus has a history of community and alumni support, which has been a great factor in its growth and development.

Founders Hall/Louella Hodges Reese Hall

Reopening in 2024

The oldest and largest building on The Ohio State University at Newark and Central Ohio Technical College (COTC) shared campus will undergo a complete renovation, renewing the structure’s lifespan and allowing both institutions to meet the needs of students throughout the 21st century.

The $26.3 million project will transform Founders Hall, a 90,200-square-foot building constructed in 1968, into a modern, welcoming facility emphasizing openness and natural light. With an increased focus on high-quality teaching, learning and co-curricular environments, the renovated facility will become an inviting location for study and engagement, offering a multitude of exciting future possibilities.

Louella Reese

Upon completion of the renovation anticipated in the summer of 2024, Founders Hall will be renamed Louella Hodges Reese Hall in grateful acknowledgment of Louella Reese’s exceptional and enduring support of the Newark campus and higher education. Whether through scholarships, capital improvements or programming, Reese’s deep commitment to improving the campus and community has never wavered and is a model for all.

Project funding

The efficiencies and cost-savings of the shared Newark campus will be leveraged throughout the project. The schools have secured $13.5 million in private gifts and will pursue an additional $1.75 million in private gifts Each school has also committed over $4 million in state capital funds and $1 million in reserve funds.

Contact Kim Manno at 740.366.9135 to contribute to this engaging teaching and learning facility for future generations of students. 

An exterior view of McConnell Hall

Three students use treadmills while one two others use weight equipment in the Adena Recreation Center.

An outdoor sign in front of a building reads Facilities Operations Building.