Sampson, Young renovations in high gear

Major renovations are underway at Sampson and Young Halls.

The two dormitories are getting new electrical systems, piping and plumbing, fire doors, and fire sprinklers. They will also be remodeled with better heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

Sampson (1938) and Young (1929) Halls were both built during the Great Depression. FAMU closed the two dormitories in 2003 due to various building code violations.

On September 19, 2010, Rattler Nation broke the news that FAMU had received a $700,000 federal grant to help renovate Sampson. The university has secured bonds to cover the rest of the costs associated with bringing Sampson and Young up to code.

University officials hope to re-open the dormitories as soon as Fall 2011. The two halls will add 208 beds to campus. FAMU’s housing department currently has a total of 2,484 beds.

Former Vice-President of Student Affairs Roland H. Gaines and current Vice-President for Student Affairs William E. Hudson, Jr. have both stated that the expansion of on-campus housing will help improve FAMU’s six-year graduation rate. Campus housing helps students save money and afford more credit hours.