Lillias M. MacDonald Residence Hall

photo of building
Location: South, Residences, Lost Buildings
Historical Note:

MacDonald Hall is one of four matching dormitories (including Pritchard/Cooke, Michael, and Schoellkopf Halls) surrounding Kimball Tower that began UB's history as a residential college. It was originally built as a women's residence hall.

Namesake:

Lillias M. MacDonald (1885-1961) was the University of Buffalo's first Dean of Women (1922-1952), established the Physical Education program, and was one of the greatest advocates for establishing residence halls.

History/Chronology:
  • 1952 -- Construction on building started on Cooke, MacDonald, and Schoellkopf halls.
  • 1952 -- (March 25) Groundbreaking ceremony
  • 1952 -- (November 5) Cornerstone ceremony
  • 1953 -- (February 1) Completion of MacDonald Residence Hall
  • 1953 -- (November 15) Dedication
  • 2018 -- (May 23) At a public forum discussing changes to the South Campus, plans for MacDonald Hall's demolition are announced.
Original Architect: James & Meadows
Original Contractors: BAW Construction Co., Inc.
Construction Cost: $1.5 million (for all three dormitory buildings - MacDonald, Schoellkopf, and Cooke)