USAO Dedicates Feaver Commons; Rededicates Willard Hall Ahead of 2027 Reopening
The University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma is celebrating its past while investing in its future with a dual announcement: the official dedication of the central campus oval as "Feaver Commons" in honor of President Emeritus Dr. John Feaver, alongside a major historical renovation of the long-vacant Willard Hall.
Dr. John Feaver began his presidency at USAO in 2000 with a deep personal commitment to beautifying the campus grounds. As the university's centennial approached in 2008, his vision converged on the heart of the campus. Feaver spearheaded a chain of six major campus enhancement projects, including the Owens Flag Plaza, the restoration of the Jourdan House, and Flight – an eight-foot-tall bronze sculpture of a winged Oklahoma scissortail by sculptor Archie Held, placed in front of Nash Library for the university's centennial.
Dr. Feaver also commissioned the installation of Held's bronze sculpture Coming Together in front of Sparks Hall, which later expanded into the expansive granite Coming Together Park designed by world-renowned sculptor Jess Morales during his time as USAO Artist-In-Residence. In recognition of his visionary leadership and passion for campus enrichment, the historic heart of campus is officially dedicated as "Feaver Commons."
Simultaneously, USAO is moving forward with a comprehensive remodel to return Willard Hall to active student housing.
Construction on Willard Hall originally began in 1919 and finished the following spring. It officially opened on Oct. 5, 1920, as the campus's second women's college dormitory following Nellie Sparks Hall. It was named in honor of Frances Elizabeth Caroline Willard, a renowned educator, women's suffrage advocate, and president of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union.
Though added to the National Register of Historic Places on Sept. 9, 2001, Willard Hall has remained closed since 2005. The upcoming renovation will meticulously restore the historic building while modernizing it as a residential living and learning community. Once complete, the updated dormitory will house 166 students and is slated to reopen by January 2027.
The conjuncture of events will be accompanied by live music performed by The Drive, food trucks, and various vendors. For more information about Homecoming events, registration, and event schedule, click here.
About USAO:
The University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma is Oklahoma’s only public liberal arts college. Located in Chickasha, USAO is a distinctive institution offering a challenging interdisciplinary curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving. With a focus on broad-based education and civic responsibility, USAO prepares students to become well-rounded, adaptable leaders ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the world.
Contact: Hannah Thompson | 405-574-1362