Pine Forge Academy Renovates Residence Halls

Story by LaTasha Hewitt

The residence halls at Pine Forge Academy recently underwent a $6.9 million dollar renovation.

Handy Hall, the young men’s dorm, was built in 1973. It underwent a complete interior renovation, including new lobby (pictured) and office spaces and dorm room upgrades with new flooring, paint, furniture and decor. The most transformed spaces were the community bathrooms, which were completely gutted and replaced with new tile, showers, toilet stalls and handwashing stations. Handy Hall also received updated electrical and air conditioning systems, an outfitted barber shop and a designated study room. The assistant dean’s apartment was also completely redone.

On the other side of campus, Kimbrough Hall, the young women’s dorm, completed Phase I of its renovation. Kimbrough Hall, also built in 1973, received new flooring, paint, vanities, dressers, desks and updated closets. The community bathrooms also received an overhaul, now featuring a new layout with modern shower stalls, vanity countertops and hair washing stations.

Linda Anderson, dean of young women, recognized the positive impact the renovations have had on morale. “The renovations create an inviting space where students feel safe and comfortable, and we’re thrilled our students have beautiful residence halls in which they can thrive and be their best.”

Phase II of Kimbrough Hall’s renovations, scheduled to begin at the end of the school year, will include an upgraded electrical and air conditioning system in each room, the hallways will receive new flooring and paint, the worship room will be painted and the front office will be redone.

Students officially moved into the renovated dorms January 2024. “The dorms provide a space where relationships are built and students learn about themselves and their peers. The renovated spaces cultivate this bonding even more,” says Addriene Rhodes, vice principal.