Truett McConnell College Expansion Plans on Fast Track

Truett McConnell College in White County is taking the next step in its expansion plans thanks to a $3.7 million dollar gift.

Last month, the University was awarded the money from the estate of longtime Atlanta architect Mildred Brown.

Tuesday, the Officials announced plans to purchase buildings now being leased for student housing, as well as another building owned by the Cleveland Worship Center.

In 2016 the college and the Cleveland Worship Center, entered into a three year lease/purchase agreement on two facilities on Kytle St. and Dixon Dr.

However, as a result of the Brown estate gift, Truett McConnell was able to purchase the Cleveland Worship Center building and two Heritage Condominiums one year earlier than expected.

The Heritage Condominiums will provide housing to 56 students, allowing for continued growth in both undergraduate and graduate student populations.

University officials tell WNEG News the remainder of the funds from the Ruth Brown Estate, more than $2 million, will be set aside as the lead gift for the new Brown Hall Academic Building.

The new academic facility will be approximately 30,000 sq. ft. and will house classrooms, lecture halls, a psychology lab, offices, tutoring rooms and study carousels.

Truett McConnell will officially begin fundraising efforts for the remaining portion of the $5 million Academic Building this summer.

Officials say the expansion is much needed.

Since 2008, the University’s student population has grown from 461 students to over 2,600 undergraduate, graduate, online and dual enrollment students.

Additionally, the university now offers 30 bachelor degree programs and five graduate degrees in the areas of Biology, Counseling, Education, Business and Theology.