Howard Phillips Hall at UCF: A Historical Perspective
Introduction
The University of Central Florida (UCF), originally established as Florida Technological University in 1963, boasts a rich history intertwined with the evolution of its campus buildings. Among these structures, Howard Phillips Hall holds a significant place. This article delves into the history of Howard Phillips Hall, exploring its original purpose, its transformation over the years, and its importance to the UCF community.
Early Beginnings: The General Classroom Building
In 1969, what is now known as Howard Phillips Hall first opened its doors as the General Classroom Building. At the time of completion only two of these floors were open for use and each floor’s use was different. The basement at the time was designed for classrooms, a vending area, and an auditorium to hold 120 students. The first floor was for classrooms and a student lounge. The dean’s office and more classrooms were located on the third floor. This four-story building, encompassing 35,808 net square feet, was designed to accommodate the growing needs of the university's burgeoning student population. Three of the floors were dedicated to student use, while the remaining floor housed professors' offices, a statistics lab, a typing room, a shorthand room, a study lounge, and a vending area.
A Tribute to Howard Phillips
In December 1981, the General Classroom Building was dedicated to Howard Phillips, a prominent Orlando businessman and entrepreneur, in recognition of his generous contributions to the university. This act of renaming the building reflected Phillips' commitment to UCF's growth and development. Orlando residents will also notice the Phillips family name across the city, such as the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.
Architectural Symbolism of the Original Campus Plan
It's worth noting the symbolic design inherent in the original campus plan of Florida Technological University. The Academic Core was designed with rings carrying astronomical and astrological names, while the helix-shaped roadway surrounding the core symbolized the double helix structure of life. The roadways were named after constellations, and "academic villages" were planned at the roadways' ends, directly connected to the core.
Evolution and Adaptation: A Hub for Student Services
Over the years, Howard Phillips Hall has undergone significant transformations to meet the evolving needs of the university. In recent years, Howard Phillips Hall holds more offices and departments than it does classrooms. It has transitioned from primarily housing classrooms to becoming a central hub for various student services and academic departments.
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Currently, First Year Advising and Exploration (FYAE), University Testing Center and Student Academic Resource Center are located in the basement of Howard Phillips Hall. These programs offer valuable resources for students including advising, testing help, and tutoring for classes. FYAE offers programs to first-year students to ensure they are on the right track as they enter college along with their first year in college. Not only are there programs offered to the general first-year students in the Student Union, but FYAE advisors extend their resources and create additional programs and hours to on-campus communities. Similar to FYAE is First Year Experience, which offers social events and activities for first year students. The departments of Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology are also located in Howard Phillips Hall.
Planned Renovations: Creating a One-Stop Shop
As of recent project, there are plans for the remodel and renovation of Howard Phillips Hall (HPH) at the University of Central Florida (UCF). The project will require a comprehensive reconfiguration of the building's interior spaces to optimize space utilization, with the goal of transforming the existing four-story, 64,619 gross square foot structure into a one-stop shop for student services. Anticipated program elements include, but are not limited to, study abroad, student accessibility services, advising, advocacy and student care services, first year experience, student financial services (bursar), and a testing center. Additionally, the project may include the construction of a new two-story lobby space facing the reflecting pond, which would provide a new main entry to the building.
The Black Faculty Staff Association's Connection
Howard Phillips Hall also holds a special place in the history of UCF's Black Faculty Staff Association (BFSA). BFSA held its first meeting on the steps of Howard Phillips Hall in the Summer of 1978. The organization began with just three members whose vision was to increase the number of black faculty and staff at the University of Central Florida. The provost office, under Provost Gary Whitehouse, was instrumental in establishing BFSA. This marked the beginning of an organization dedicated to creating a supportive network and unified voice for African American faculty and staff at UCF.
Other Notable Buildings and Figures at UCF
To fully appreciate the context of Howard Phillips Hall's history, it's helpful to consider other significant buildings and figures that have shaped UCF.
John C. Hitt Library: Named after the fourth president of UCF, this library was the first building constructed on campus and initially housed a variety of functions, including radio stations and administrative offices.
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Ferrell Commons: Originally the Student Center, Ferrell Commons was one of the first buildings on campus and has evolved to house various student organizations, dining facilities, and event spaces. It became Ferrell Commons to honor the legacy of one Jimmie Alton Ferrell, the director of student affairs for the university and the man who ran the Student Center that now carries his namesake.
Millican Hall: This building commemorates Charles Millican, the "Father of UCF," who served as the university's first president and played a pivotal role in its establishment.
Trevor Colbourn Hall: Formerly the Humanities Department Building, this building honors Trevor Colbourn, the second president of UCF, who oversaw the university's name change and the establishment of key academic programs.
John T. Washington Center: Named after John T. Washington, one of the first African-American residents on UCF’s campus and a great contributor to the community.
Wayne Densch Sports Center: This facility is named after Wayne Densch, an Orlando philanthropist who contributed significantly to UCF's athletic programs.
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Barbara Ying Center: Dedicated in honor of Barbara Ying, this center hosts events focusing on social, cultural, and intellectual activities.
Burnett House & Honor College: Named after Al and Nancy Burnett, these facilities recognize their significant contributions to the university, including the establishment of the College of Medicine.
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