Paine College Receives $2.2 million for structure improvements

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WJBF) – Paine College has received more than two million dollars to restore three historical structures on campus.

A total of $2.2 million dollars is how much money Paine College has received from the National Park Service to make those upgrades right here on campus.

“This grant is evidence that people in high power believe and support Paine College…,” Paine College Board of Trustees Chairman Michael Thurmond said.

NPS awarded more than $10 million to 15 projects in eight states as part of the Historic Preservation Fund’s HBCU grant program.

“It’s a sense of great pride and accomplishment to be one of those institutions chosen, and to be one of only two that will be awarded three grants. This is an indication that Paine College is on the rise, that we’re thriving, and moving in the right direction,” Thurmond said.

The funds will help restore Epworth Residential Hall and Belle-Bennett Residential Hall, both built in the early and mid 1900s. Peters Campus Center that houses the cafeteria, offices, student lounge and recreation areas is also on the list for improvement.

“Peters is the center of campus life, particularly for our students, and to be honest, in order to be competitive in this environment, we have to enhance the living and spirit of our students…,” Thurmond said.

Steps towards those improvements, Thurmond tells me, are already in the works.

“Planning is already taking place, and as soon as funds are available, we will move forward expeditiously as possible to begin the reservations and continue to upgrade our campus.

Thurmond says he’s grateful Paine College can be on that list.

“We’re extremely appreciative of the works and leadership of Senator Ossoff and Senator Warnock.”

Those who are a part of the university are hopeful the donation will help preserve Paine College’s future.

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