SAU Tech Receives More than $2 Million Grant for Highland Hall Renovations

Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) has received $2,095,971 in grant funding from the Arkansas Natural & Cultural Resources Council (ANCRC) to support the next phase of renovations to Highland Hall, the college's historic residence hall located on the East Camden campus.

The project, titled Shumaker 500- Men's Barracks Phase III, will preserve and modernize one of the last remaining historic structures from the former Shumaker Naval Ammunition Depot. Listed on the Arkansas Historic Registry. Highland Hall continues to serve as student housing while preserving a significant piece of Arkansas military and industrial history.

The Arkansas Natural & Cultural Resources Council grant program is funded through Arkansas's real estate transfer tax and supports projects that protect and preserve the state's historic landmarks, natural resources, and outdoor recreation assets.

Highland Hall Renovation Project Improvements

The Phase III renovation project will include several major infrastructure and facility upgrades designed to improve the student living experience and extend the lifespan of the historic building, including:

• Bathroom renovations
• Electrical and lighting upgrades
• Roof replacement
• Door hardware improvements
• Installation of an energy-efficient HVAC system
• Storm-cap window upgrades
• Interior room finish enhancements



In addition to improving the facility's functionality and energy efficiency, the project will increase on-campus housing capacity by adding 32 new student beds in Highland Hall.

"The funding from the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council represents a significant commitment to our students and to the preservation of an important piece of Arkansas history," said Dr. Rickey Rogers, Vice Chancellor for Student Services. "The renovations to Highland Hall will ensure that the facility continues to serve our campus community for years to come by expanding our on-campus housing capacity while creating a more modern and energy-efficient living environment for our students. We are grateful to the Arkansas Natural and Cultural Resources Council for recognizing the importance of this project and continually investing in the future of SAU Tech."

Preserving Arkansas History While Expanding Student Housing

The Highland Hall renovation project aligns with SAU Tech's ongoing commitment to preserving historic campus facilities while enhancing the student experience through improved housing, sustainability, and campus infrastructure. Once completed, the upgrades will help meet growing student housing demand while maintaining the historic character and significance of one of Arkansas's most notable military heritage structures.