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PHOTOS: Edward Waters College Unveils New Student Residential Facility

Jacksonville, Fla. — In a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday, Edward Waters College (EWC) unveiled and dedicated the new Bishop Adam J. and Connie S. Richardson Hall located at 1780 Pearce Street.

In late 2019, the College broke ground on a comprehensive $4.4 million renovation of its largest student residence facility due to a special partnership with the City of Jacksonville.

The newly renovated Bishop Adam J. and Connie S. Richardson Hall has 176 beds and includes new furnishings throughout the entire facility including a computer lab, lounge and study areas and high-speed internet.

The apartment-style units are outfitted with a furnished common area, bathroom furnishings and kitchenette. A courtyard has been created with greenery and other features for the students to enjoy.

“We look forward to welcoming our students to this state-of-the-art residential facility,” said Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr., president and CEO of Edward Waters College.

“Edward Waters College is a vital part of Jacksonville and a key part of who we are as a community,” said Mayor Lenny Curry. “The stronger this college is, the stronger our city is. I am proud of my administration’s smart investments in EWC and Richardson Hall to strengthen this historic institution, surrounding neighborhood and our community as a whole.”

“My wife and I are extremely grateful to the board of trustees for this extraordinary honor,” said Bishop Alan J. Richardson. He thanked Mayor Curry and stated “This investment will have a lasting impact not only for EWC but also for the curb appeal in New Town.”

“Having the opportunity to live on-campus provides critical thinking, cultural competency, conflict resolution, leadership and a sense of community which are all critical components of interpersonal development for our students,” said Dr. Faison. “The Bishop Adam J. and Connie S. Richardson Hall will provide an opportunity for our students to experience high-quality, apartment-style living, as well as assist us in our recruitment and retention efforts of new and returning Tigers while continuously enhancing our local community.”

Edward Waters College (EWC), accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), is a private, historically black, urban college which offers a liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on the Christian principles of high moral and spiritual values. EWC was established in 1866 and is an African Methodist Episcopal Church-related institution of learning. It is the first private institution of higher education in the State of Florida.

Samantha Mathers

Samantha Mathers, Action News Jax

Samantha Mathers is a digital reporter and content creator for Action News Jax.