The Post answers the question “Why is it called Central Classroom Building?” and delves into how Ohio University names buildings.
It seems like Ohio University students are always asking the good questions: “When does the bar open?” “When is Mill Fest this year?” “How much longer can I sleep before I’m late to class?”
This week, we’re going to answer a question that came to us through Athens Asks, our forum where you ask the questions and The Post finds the answers: “Why is it called Central Classroom Building?”
Good question. The university doesn't really have an answer.
When asked how the Central Classroom Building got its name, the university only explained the process of how university buildings are generally named. That leaves us to assume that it's because the building is (sort of) centrally-located and has classrooms.
Most buildings on OU’s campus, such as Ping Recreation Center, Alden Library and Walter Fieldhouse, are named after people, from old university presidents to OU donors. That leaves Central Classroom Building, located on West Union Street, the odd man out.
The Central Classroom Building was built in 1941 and was previously known as the Industrial Technology building, according to OU's website.
When it comes down to it, names of buildings on campus are typically determined either by a substantial donation or an ad-hoc committee formed by the university president, OU Spokeswoman Katie Quaranta said in an email.
Members of the ad-hoc committee will typically include a mix of big names in Residential Housing (i.e. Executive Director Housing and Residence Life Pete Trentacoste), members of the Dean of Students Office, alumni, members of Student Senate, the university archivist and employees who oversee the construction and design of university buildings.
The university president will then recommend some names. The list typically includes individuals “who have had a significant service or made historical contributions to Ohio University,” Quaranta said.
While anyone who meets those criteria is up for consideration, it is preferred if he or she is no longer living, a memo from OU President Roderick McDavis to the last committee formed read. That committee decided on the name for the four new dorms that opened this academic year.
From there, the committee debates, makes a short list and presents it to the Board of Trustees, who approve the name in a formal resolution, Quaranta said.
@emilybohatch
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