Chesapeake Academic Building dedicated to student success

On a chilly November morning, community members, elected officials and the Tidewater Community College family gathered to dedicate the Chesapeake Academic Building.

President Edna V. Baehre-Kolovani welcomed guests and referenced the partnership between TCC and the City of Chesapeake, which brought the building from groundbreaking to fruition. “We’re thrilled to offer students and faculty this state-of-the-art place to learn.”

Mayor Alan Krasnoff talked about his community college roots and his commitment to TCC. “TCC has been pushing students toward excellence for 45 years. Our 21st century leaders are getting their start here, and we know they will change the world.”

The Chesapeake Academic Building, which opened for students on Aug. 22, is a 60,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art building featuring computer and LED video that supports the varied teaching and presentation requirements of the college.

“This building shows that together we can accomplish anything,” added James Jackson of the TCC board. “

Professor David Kiracofe noted the impact the building has had on student learning already. “This is a fine place for students to come and learn with the technology, the spaciousness and the light.”

The building includes 21 general purpose classrooms, as well as four tiered classrooms that provide a dynamic classroom experience for students. The building also features a multi-purpose assembly space with seating for 120. TCC Theatre will hold productions in the space, and it will be used for lectures, concerts, meetings and workshops.

Student Hezroy Hammill, president of Student Government Association, said, “We find ourselves here at a time of rapid change, and with myriad opportunities for learning. Most of us will receive associate degrees with little or no debt, and for that, I want to say thank you, TCC.”