Jarvis Christian University marked a major milestone on Friday, May 2, 2025, with the official grand opening of the newly renovated Innovation Lounge in the Olin Library. Funded by a generous $59,000 grant from The Home Depot’s Retool Your School Program, the transformation of the historic library wing represents a bold investment in student-centered learning, collaboration, and innovation.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony drew a vibrant crowd of students, faculty, staff, community leaders, and alumni, all eager to witness the unveiling of the reimagined space. Located on the university’s main campus in Hawkins, Texas, the Innovation Lounge stands as a modern, multifunctional environment designed to support creativity, interdisciplinary teamwork, and academic excellence.
“This renovation is more than a building upgrade—it’s a symbol of our continued commitment to creating high-impact learning experiences for our students,” said Dr. Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt, President and CEO of Jarvis Christian University. “We are grateful to The Home Depot for believing in our mission and for helping to bring this vision to life.”
The Home Depot’s Retool Your School Program supports campus improvement projects at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation. Jarvis Christian University was named a 2024–2025 award recipient under the program’s Legacy Campus Improvement Grant, which funds projects that have lasting impact on the student experience.
Representing The Home Depot at the ceremony was Ms. Kiya Aubrey, Assistant Store Manager of the Tyler location. She joined university leaders and honored guests for the official ribbon cutting, followed by a tour of the upgraded facility. Speakers included Board of Trustees Chairman Mr. Torry Edwards; U.S. Representative Lance Gooden of Texas’s 5th Congressional District; Student Government Association President Ms. Chinaza “Jennifer” Okwuoma; and Rev. Dominique Grate, Interim Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Development.
“The Innovation Lounge will serve as a hub for student collaboration and intellectual growth,” said Rev. Grate. “Thanks to the support of The Home Depot, we have created a space that inspires forward-thinking and innovation in every student who walks through its doors.”
The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Dorothy Langley from the Office for Sponsored Programs. Opening and closing prayers were offered by Rev. Dr. Sedaric Dinkens and Rev. Rodney Atkins, Director of the Olin Library.
Following the formal program, guests had the opportunity to explore the Innovation Lounge, which features modern furnishings, updated technology, and flexible seating arrangements to accommodate group projects, study sessions, and campus programming.
This exciting addition to the Olin Library reflects Jarvis Christian University’s strategic focus on academic enhancement, student success, and 21st-century learning. It also strengthens the university’s commitment to creating inclusive, empowering spaces that reflect the diverse talents and aspirations of its student body.
As the Innovation Lounge opens its doors, it does so as a living symbol of progress, vision, and community partnership—hallmarks of the Jarvis experience.
