An Interdisciplinary Hub

Martin D. Jenkins Hall

Martin D. Jenkins Hall

Morgan State University
Baltimore, Maryland

This new interdisciplinary academic hub seeks to create connections. Uniting five departments – Economics, History and Geography, Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology, and Political Science – the building fosters collaboration between students, faculty, and disciplines.

A central atrium is ringed with glass-walled classrooms and labs that allow students, many of whom are the first member of their family to go to college, to see what their peers are working on. Plentiful breakout spaces provide areas for the informal exchange of ideas. Flexible furnishings throughout the building allow students and teachers to create the learning environment they need for the task at hand.

An Interdisciplinary Hub
We must never, ever forget what it really means to the legacy of our great university to be in this space. This spot is not just a venue for two great buildings. This is Freedom Plaza.
Wide aerial view of bulding property.

A Civil Rights Legacy

Jenkins Hall and a companion building, the Morgan Business Center, are located adjacent to the former Northwood Shopping Center, which University students fought to integrate in the 1950s. The building’s namesake, Martin D. Jenkins, was the University’s president during this time.

Photo of lecture hall with professor and students.

Interior Architecture

In collaboration with design architect HOK, we served as the interior architect for Jenkins Hall. We worked closely with faculty leaders to develop space plans customized to the six departments’ individual needs, incorporating specialized furniture, equipment, and audiovisual systems.

Interior photo of classrrom.

A Humanities Lab

An interdisciplinary teaching lab and instructional design center provides an environment for University professors and students to conduct research in emerging pedagogical methods, including active and technology-based learning.

Photo of atrium window exterior view.
Photo of main lobby and atrium wall.

Sustainable Design

Jenkins Hall is LEED Silver certified by the U.S. Green Building Council. Transparent walls allow daylight to filter from the windows and atrium clearstory into most areas of the building. All electric lighting comes from efficient LED fixtures.

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