Governors Complex

photo of building
Location: North, Residences
Historical Note:

The first dorm on the North Campus, the Governors' Complex was designed by noted architect I.M. Pei. A copy of dorms built at SUNY Fredonia, it is a complex of four linked residence halls, each of which bears the name of a former New York State governor. Governors' Complex was designed with facilities to house 800 students in suite-style living.

Namesake:
  • Dewitt Clinton, the sixth governor of New York State (1817-1823), was responsible in great part for the construction of the Erie Canal.
  • Theodore Roosevelt's actions while governor (1898-1900), specifically his campaign against corruption, made him an ideal running mate for William McKinley during the 1900 election.
  • Herbert L. Lehman, New York's first Jewish governor, served four terms (1933-1942) before taking a post with the Department of State.
  • Thomas E. Dewey was New York's 45th governor (1943-1954). While governor Dewey signed legislation that created the State University of New York and played a major role in the creation of the New York State Thruway.
History/Chronology:
  • 1972 -- (November) Building completed
  • 1973 -- (September) Students moved in
Original Architect: I.M. Pei and Associates
Construction Cost: $1,980,000
Original Size: 54,911 sq. ft.