Morgan State University Jenkins Hall Behavioral and Social Sciences Center

As an educator and academic researcher, Martin D. Jenkins earned acclaim for pioneering work in the field of African-American education. Later, as president of Morgan State University, he gained prominence for expanding the reach, diversity and influence of the historically Black college.

HOK’s team aimed to create a building that honored its namesake and continued his mission. As the centerpiece for liberal arts education at MSU, Jenkins Hall brings together five departments—economics, history and geography, sociology and anthropology, political science and psychology—to create a new academic hub.

Serving as the building’s living room, a five-story atrium promotes a sense of community. A feature staircase gives students and visitors grand views of the atrium and curved academic wing while connecting them to study spaces and faculty offices.

The strategic use of glass allows students to see one another learning and to instill many of MSU’s first-generation college students with feelings of unity and empowerment. Abundant windows showcase the classrooms and labs, inviting the community to join in the scholarly activity.

Adjustable teaching and research spaces respond to the needs of students and instructors, allowing for a variety of configurations, from traditional classrooms to collaborative learning and lab areas.