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In a strong show of support for higher education, Gov. Bill Lee has included funding in this year’s budget proposal for numerous initiatives to drive economic development and innovation, including $51.3 million in funding for Phase II of East Tennessee State University’s Brown Hall renovation and $5 million for upgrades at the iLab/ETSU-Eastman Valleybrook campus. Unveiled earlier this evening during the governor’s annual State of the State address, the governor’s budget also designates allocations for university operating expenses, including salary increases for employees.

ETSU President Dr. Brian Noland expressed gratitude for the state’s continued support: “We are deeply appreciative of Gov. Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly for their continued investments in higher education. This funding will enable us to transform Brown Hall into a state-of-the-art facility, enhancing the educational experience for our students, supporting groundbreaking research and strengthening workforce development, particularly within in-demand fields such as health care. The funding for the iLab and Valleybrook underscores the state of Tennessee’s commitment to advancing our research and innovation infrastructure and driving continued economic development in Northeast Tennessee.”

Long before they make lifesaving decisions at a patient’s bedside, conduct tests of regional water quality, submit a research grant proposal or study galaxies far away, students at ETSU hone their early science skills in Brown Hall. The facility has served as ETSU’s primary science building for more than five decades and is home to the departments of Biological Sciences, Physics and Astronomy, and Chemistry.

“Brown Hall is integral to the academic journey of nearly all our students, whether they’re pursuing science majors or fulfilling general education requirements,” Dr. Kimberly D. McCorkle, ETSU’s provost and senior vice president of Academic Affairs, said. “The planned enhancements will provide access to cutting-edge equipment and learning environments, ensuring our students are well-prepared for their future careers.”

The comprehensive renovation is planned in two phases. Phase I, focusing on the building’s north side, received nearly $48 million in prior funding from the governor and the General Assembly and is currently underway. Phase II will address the remaining sections, ensuring modernized facilities for all science disciplines housed within. Funding for facilities at Valleybrook will enable ETSU to upgrade scientific laboratories and support the growth of the region’s biomanufacturing industry.

The university is actively engaging with alumni and supporters to secure additional private funding necessary to complete the renovations in Brown Hall.