What's in a Name?

The Mark Jefferson Science Building, constructed during EMU’s expansion in the 1960s, is named after Mark S.W. Jefferson, a distinguished geographer and faculty member at Michigan State Normal College (1901-1939). Jefferson was instrumental in developing the Geography Department into one of the largest in the country. He taught an estimated 15,000 students during his tenure and published around 120 books and articles on geography. Jefferson also gained international recognition for his work as the Head Cartographer for the American Commission to Negotiate Peace in Paris after World War I.

Porter Building, formerly a library building, is named after Dr. John W. Porter, who served as EMU’s president from 1979 to 1988. Dr. Porter was the first African American superintendent of schools in the United States and made significant contributions to Michigan’s educational system, including the establishment of the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP). During his presidency at EMU, he led the university through a period of considerable growth. His legacy at EMU includes the urban education department professorship, an undergraduate scholarship, and a distinguished service award, all named in his honor.

Starkweather Hall is named after Mary Ann Starkweather, a generous local philanthropist. Initially earmarked for a science facility, her $10,000 gift instead funded the Student Christian Association building, making Eastern Michigan University the first U.S. teachers’ college with a dedicated space for religious activities. Featuring reception rooms, a library, classrooms, and a kitchen on the first floor, the building also included an assembly room upstairs. Starkweather’s generosity extended beyond the university, benefiting the broader Ypsilanti community. Starkweather Hall was a cornerstone of student life and housed the Honors College until 2015.

Sill Hall, is named after John Mayhelm Sill, a member of the university’s first graduating class in 1854 and the ninth president of the institution. Sill was known for his commitment to education and leadership during the early years. His tenure as president contributed to the growth and development of the institution, helping to establish it as a prominent institution for teacher education. The building, which underwent a dramatic renovation in 2021, now houses the GameAbove College of Engineering & Technology.

Originally designed for the Department of English and Speech, the building houses classrooms and two theatres and is named in honor of Emeritus Professor Judy Sturgis Hill, a distinguished EMU alum and professor of Communication, Media and Theatre arts, and celebrates her impactful legacy. Sturgis Hill, EMU’s first National Forensics Champion and recipient of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Humanitarian Award, served in numerous influential roles on campus, deeply shaping the university community and dedicating much of her career to an unwavering support of students.

Walton Residence Hall is named after Genevieve Walton, who served as head librarian at Michigan State Normal School (1892-1932). Despite having little formal training in library science, Walton was a pioneering force in modernizing the library. Under her leadership, the library collection grew significantly, and the library staff expanded to accommodate the growing student population. The opening of the first dedicated library building (Ford Hall) in 1929 was the crowning achievement of her career.

Opened in 1957 and named after Edwin A. Strong, head of the Department of Physical Science from 1885 to 1916, Strong Hall responded to the booming post-World War II enrollment. Built for $1.5 million, it featured multiple labs for chemistry, physics, and faculty research and five lecture halls. The design included a central core to ensure consistent environmental conditions necessary for scientific work. Strong Hall’s $40 million renovation, completed in 2019, brought it into the modern era, forming the final phase of EMU’s Science Complex and reinforcing its role as a hub for STEM education.

Bowen Fieldhouse is named after Wilbur Pardon Bowen, the first head of EMU’s Department of Physical Education, who established teacher-training courses in the field and served from 1894 until his passing in 1928. Built during a period of rapid growth, Bowen was the second fieldhouse on campus and a hub for physical education and athletics. The 88,000 square foot facility, once one of the largest in the country, is nicknamed “The Old Barn” and was a revered site for EMU’s basketball team before they moved to the George Gervin GameAbove Center.

Welch Hall is named after Adonijah Strong Welch, the first principal of Michigan Normal School. Welch was a strict disciplinarian but also an advocate for open-minded and independent thinking in education. He guided the institution through its formative years and laid the foundation for its future growth. After leaving the school due to health reasons, Welch continued his career in education, eventually becoming the first president of Iowa State Agricultural College (now Iowa State University). He also served briefly in the U.S. Senate.