LAKEWOOD – Georgian Court University is dedicating $19 million to modernize student and operational spaces across its Lakewood campus. The initiative, the largest facilities investment since the mid-2000s, will strengthen residential life, enhance academic spaces and modernize critical infrastructure while advancing sustainability goals.
“I am pleased to share that the Georgian Court University Board of Trustees has approved a comprehensive $19 million investment in campus infrastructure, the largest facilities investment at Georgian Court in almost two decades,” said Dr. Eugene Cornacchia, interim president. “This historic commitment reflects our long-term dedication to campus growth, student success, and the well-being of our community.”
The projects include renovations to Maria Hall and St. Joseph Hall, the creation of a new student gathering space, HVAC upgrades in Raymond Dining Hall and the School of Education, enhancements to Mercy Hall Chapel, and elevator modernizations across campus.
The last university investment of comparable scale was the construction of the Wellness Center, completed in 2008. The 67,000-square-foot, LEED Gold-certified facility serves as the hub for athletics and recreation, featuring a 1,200-seat arena and training facilities.
The centerpiece of the initiative is the full modernization of Maria Hall, a 59-year-old, three-story residence hall that houses up to 219 students, primarily first-year residents. The building is undergoing a complete renovation to ensure a fully updated residential environment.
In the fall of 2025, following recurring moisture and ventilation concerns in portions of Maria Hall, the university conducted professional remediation and a full engineering evaluation. To prevent repeated disruptions for residents, leadership decided to temporarily vacate the hall for the Spring 2026 semester and undertake a comprehensive renovation. Construction crews are removing ceilings, replacing outdated piping and installing new HVAC systems. By the fall of 2026, Maria Hall will feature new windows, flooring, mechanical systems and upgraded infrastructure throughout.
Construction is expected to continue through the summer, with major residential upgrades completed for the fall semester.
“As a university founded by the Sisters of Mercy, we are called to steward our resources responsibly and to create environments where students can live, learn, and grow with dignity,” Dr. Cornacchia added. “These improvements are part of that commitment.”
