Wise Residence Hall

Building Name

Wise Residence Hall

Description

Eastern's enrollment grew rapidly in the post-World War II years, resulting in high demand for campus housing. Construction plans called for four buildings surrounding a central dining facility. When completed, the new housing would contain space for approximately 1,200 students in the center of campus. The new housing was originally intended for women, and builders hoped to complete the complex by 1958. Downing opened first in 1957, followed by Buell in 1958, then Wise and Best opened in the 1960s. Wise was able to house 322 students and included meeting rooms, laundry facilities, and recreational areas. Wise Hall received an $11.5 million renovation in 2016, receiving necessary modern updates including installation of A/C units and Wi-Fi. Wise still serves as a residence hall for undergraduate students.

Additionally, the Brotherhood and Sisterhood Scholars Programs are housed in Wise. These programs are designed to increase retention and graduation rates for students identifying as people of color. Through collaborative university partnerships, the Brotherhood and Sisterhood Scholars programs guide students in their transition to college by providing an extended orientation, a residential community, designated courses, mentorship and workshops.

Namesake Biography

Margaret Elizabeth Wise was born November 16, 1866, on River Street, Ypsilanti, Michigan, the daughter of John and Mary Boyle Wise. She died in Clearwater, Florida, on March 21, 1957. She had retired in 1939 from a career of 52 years in the field of education. Her first six years were spent in the public schools of Charlotte and Grand Rapids, Michigan, and her remaining years were spent at Michigan State Normal College. Her first 34 years at M.S.N.C. were spent as a critic teacher, and the last twelve as Director of Placement. Among her many thousands of former pupils and student teachers she will always be remembered for her brilliant mind, her keen grasp of classroom procedure, and her sympathetic understanding of their individual problems.

Building Namesake

Margaret G. Wise, 1st grade teacher - trainer, 1893-1939, Director of Placement, 1927-1939

Year Constructed

1962

Date Dedicated

1962

Building Functions

Residence Hall

Date Renovated

2016

Architect

Swanson and Associates, Bloomfield Hills, MI

Builder

Palmer Smith Company, Detroit

Original Cost

$1,140,000

Architectural Style

International

Square Footage

72,338

Rights

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