Demolition is underway for Thomas and Brown Hall, the former home of New Mexico State University’s Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering.
The development aims to enhance educational infrastructure for engineering students and faculty.
Built in 1971, the half century old building has seen minor renovations in the past to keep up with changing technology and physical condition. The decision to replace Thomas and Brown Hall stems from its dated design and infrastructure inefficiencies. The building’s age led to additional problems such as poor energy use, plumbing issues and inadequate power systems.
The new building, which has not been named or dedicated, will serve as the new home of the Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering and also will include experiential, multidisciplinary learning spaces that will enhance collaboration across the college.
“Modern facilities play a crucial role in attracting, training and retaining students, serving as a foundation for student success,” said Steve Stochaj, Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering department head. “This space will provide students from all engineering disciplines with access to tutoring, peer mentoring, leadership development, industry connections and opportunities to explore micro-credentials. It will act as the ‘front porch’ of the College of Engineering, reinforcing the college’s dedication to student success.”
New Mexico voters approved a General Obligation Bond in 2023, allocating $22.5 million, along with $10 million from the state’s General Fund in 2024, for the demolition of Thomas and Brown Hall and the construction of a new engineering facility. This funding was part of a broader initiative that supported educational facility projects across the state of New Mexico.
“This new facility represents a major investment in the future of engineering education at NMSU,” said David Jáuregui, College of Engineering interim dean. “By providing state-of-the-art spaces for learning, research and collaboration, we are ensuring that our students and faculty have the resources they need to excel. This project underscores our commitment to innovation, student success and the advancement of engineering education in New Mexico.”
During the construction period, the Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering has been relocated to the Goddard Annex. Faculty also were relocated to various offices within other College of Engineering buildings.
The replacement of Thomas and Brown Hall aligns with NMSU’s commitment to providing modern, efficient and student-focused educational environments.
As the demolition progresses and construction plans move forward, NMSU continues to engage with constituents, including students, faculty, alumni, industry and the local community, to ensure that the new facility meets the evolving needs of its users and supports the university’s strategic goals.
For more information about naming opportunities, contact Patrick Knapp, College of Engineering’s director of development, at 575-646-5276 or pknapp2@nmsu.edu.
The College of Engineering prepared a historical video to honor the two prominent figures to whom the building was originally dedicated, Melvin A. Thomas and Harold Brown, Thomas and Brown Hall - The Legacy of a Student-Centric Tradition.
-30-
CUTLINE: Thomas and Brown Hall, former home to New Mexico State University’s Klipsch School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, is being demolished to make way for a new engineering building. (NMSU Photos by Stella Aude)