P A G E 5 June 27, 2025, marked a historic day at VSU. The University officially cut the ribbon on the new Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons Building, set to be the largest building in school history and a cornerstone of VSU’s academic future. The new Academic Commons now serves as the home for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the College of Education. Designed with flexibility and innovation in mind, the building features modern classrooms, collaborative learning spaces, faculty offices, wellness and recreation spaces, and advanced technology to support teaching, research, and student success. More than just an academic building, the new Academic Commons is a vibrant, multi-use hub for learning, creativity, and community engagement. It offers students and faculty the resources to collaborate, create, and thrive in an environment that reflects VSU’s commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning. The opening of the Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons Building in Fall 2025 ushers in a new era for academic life at Virginia State University. I M P A C T R E P O R T - 2 0 2 3 — 2 5 I M P A C T R E P O R T - 2 0 2 3 — 2 5 Letter From The President Celebrating The Largest Building In University History Dear VSU Investors and Friends, It is my pleasure to present the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 Virginia State University Impact Report, an overview of the generous gifts, strategic investments, and meaningful partnerships that continue to shape the trajectory of VSU. This year’s report reflects more than just numbers; it captures the momentum of a university on the rise. From expanding academic resources to breaking ground on transformative new facilities, your support has allowed VSU to take bold steps forward in the service of our students and mission. I want to thank our Board of Visitors for their steadfast leadership and our faculty, staff, alumni, friends, and donors whose belief in Virginia State University fuels our success. Your generosity continues to ease financial burdens, fund critical scholarships, and support the Tuition Assistance Fund, ensuring that students from all walks of life can access a Greater educational experience. Over the past two years, we celebrated milestones that marked a new chapter in our institution’s legacy—from offering new degree programs to the ribbon-cutting of the new Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons. These achievements reflect not only our continued growth but also the dedication and passion of our faculty, staff, and the broader Trojan community. As you review this year’s report, you’ll find a comprehensive look at the accomplishments and impact of the University and the VSU Foundation, along with a donor honor roll celebrating all who have given. Whether you are a Powell Society or 1882 Society member—or someone making your first gift—please know that every contribution is deeply valued. Thank you for your continued belief in our mission. Together, we are creating pathways to opportunity and ensuring that Greater continues to Happen Here at Virginia State University. In the spirit of GREATER, Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D. President - Virginia State University GREATER LEADERSHIP GREATER Growth (Cover Story) —Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D. Opening Of The New Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons In Fall 2025 “ This year’s report reflects more than just numbers; it captures the momentum of a university on the rise. From expanding academic resources to breaking ground on transformative new facilities, your support has allowed VSU to take bold steps forward in the service of our students and mission.” P A G E 4 • 174,000 square feet • 49 classrooms • 150 faculty and staff offices • A black box theater and art gallery • A gymnasium, swimming pool, and elevated indoor track • Cardio and dance studios • Dedicated television and recording studios Alfred W. Harris Academic Commons AT A GLANCE
View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.