By BRIAN TYNES

Staff Writer

In the midst of a forward-thinking world, Hale Hall is a window into the past.

The building, modeled after what was the oldest structure on campus until it was razed in 2002, has been reconstructed through the use of a $1 million anonymous donation along with state funds.

It now houses the office of admissions in the north and central wings of the first floor and School of Architecture on the south wing of the first floor and the second and third floors.

Hale Hall was first constructed in 1898 as a two-story women's residence hall. Over the years two three-story wings were added to the north and south ends of the original structure.

In 1910 Hale Hall was converted into a men's residence hall.

Hale Hall was named after Willis B. Hale, an associate professor of education, who served the university from 1900-04.

Lisa Peddy, a junior architecture major, said she looks forward to moving into Hale Hall because of the upgrade in amenities.

"Hale Hall will have Internet hookups and electric outlets at each work station," Peddy said. "It will help as far as us being more productive."

Peddy said she is glad students will have more space.

"We have our own building now with big nice open studios," Peddy said.

Jan Albritton, director of admissions, said being located in Hale Hall will make her job easier because it gives a feeling of unity.

"So many times [the office of admissions] is the first impression students have of the university, and it gives a family atmosphere and that's what Louisiana Tech is all about," Albritton said.

She said the office of admissions moved into Hale Hall June 25.

Bruce Ayres, director of the physical plant, said the building was constructed with efficiency in mind.

"It should be an energy-efficient building," Ayres said. "The architect built it to good standard of control of energy. Energy-efficient lighting fixtures were used, and the overall construction of the building itself was designed for efficiency."

Jerry Drewett, vice president for administrative services, said construction began in December 2002 and finished in June 2004. The building was completed within the timeframe set forth in the construction contract.

Drewett said Hale Hall is an important piece of Tech's history and the university did not want to lose it.

"It was a vacant building and we needed the additional space but we wanted to keep the oldest building on campus and its appearance," Drewett said. "A lot of alumni can relate to it because they have fond memories of Tech and Hale Hall."