Torgersen Hall
Torgersen Hall is a 150,000-sq.-ft., $28-million building completed in 2000. It is connected to Newman Library by a dramatic bridge that spans Alumni Mall. It is named for Paul E. Torgersen, Tech's 14th president. There are classrooms, three rooms that can be configured for televised distance learning, and 150- and 300-seat auditoriums. The first floor also includes an atrium with tables, chairs, and computer hookups that serves as an electronic study court and a space where people can gather. Visually, the electronic reading room that occupies the arch spanning Alumni Mall is the most stunning part of the building. Couches, the huge open space, and cherry wood covering the arched ceilings give it the feel of the old library reading room. The rest of the building mostly consists of offices and laboratory space designed specifically for the occupants.
Paul Ernest Torgersen
Paul Ernest Torgersen (1931- ) was department head of Industrial Engineering from 1967 to 1970, Dean of the College of Engineering from 1970 to 1990, served as President of the Corporate Research Center from 1990 to 1994, and was President from 1994 to 2000. A professor who became president, Torgersen taught every semester during his years at Virginia Tech. As dean, he led the College of Engineering to national prominence, and as university president, he focused on rebuilding financial resources and technology leadership. He was named to the National Academy of Engineering; received the Sporn Award for teaching excellence; and signed, as dean and president, 62,191 diplomas.
Address: Drillfield Drive | Map Grid: M-4
Originally Built: 2000 | Abbreviation: TORG