The 1960s always will be alive at NIU thanks to the architecture incorporated into Graham Hall. With its semi-circular shape, pale-colored brick, dark-blue enamel and large panels of glass, the building – named after long-time teacher Ray Graham – has housed the college of education since it opened in February 1964.

The unusual circular design, which gives the building its character, was recommended by Robert F. Topp, dean of education when Graham was constructed. Topp thought the building should be curved to match the University School (Gabel Hall) and to prevent the building from expanding into the lab school’s playground. It was located where it would connect to the rest of the college of education.

Just as it does today, Graham has always served the college of education. It originally started as a building targeted toward the Special Education program, but over time it changed and grew with the college. Since Graham did so much for the Special Education program, the building was named after him.

Exterior catches students’ eyes

The most unique feature of the architecture incorporated into Graham is the round, one-story, windowless, 320-seat conference room connected to the front of the building. The conference room has been transformed into a computer lab.

Although Topp might have enjoyed the external appearance when Graham was built, some view the blue tiles as a bit dated.

“I don’t particularly like [the outside]. I think the building can’t generate any pride like the business majors can with Barsema,” said junior history major Aaron Peterson.

After breaking ground May 29, 1962, the building took Tonyan Construction Co. a little less than two years to build. It was designed by architect Gilbert A. Johnson of Rockford and was completed for a mere $1,625,000. This price may sound cheap today, but it was enough to fund a four-story building with air-conditioning and many innovative classrooms.

Originally, the building housed 18 college classrooms, three seminar rooms, seven rooms dedicated to special education studies and the offices of the college of education.

Renovations update, extend life

Not much has changed. The dean of the college of education’s office, along with offices and classrooms, still exist in the building. Many rooms have been updated with computers and other modern teaching and learning devices.

Renovations to all classrooms took place from April to June 2004, with the last three classrooms being finished in December.

15 classrooms in Graham Hall are now “smart classrooms” that are general purpose and have the same technology as other “smart classrooms” around campus, said Diane Jackman, associate dean of the college of education.

“I am really happy that the college of education was able to renovate the classrooms in Graham Hall for our students and faculty. Our students seem to like the change and take pride in keeping the classrooms looking nice. I think that we have been able to create a much better learning environment for our students,” said Jackman.

The Reading Clinic, College of Development & Alumni and the College of Reading & Learning also are located in Graham.

No matter what students think about the outside, it really comes down to Graham serving its purpose.

“I just come here every day for class so I don’t care about the look,” said freshman history major Rachel Robertson.