News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The newest Tennessee Tech residence hall will be named after JJ Oakley.
The JJ Oakley Innovation Center and Residence Hall will be located near the intersection of University Drive and Whitney Avenue. Both Millard and JJ Oakley have been key donors in the development of the university.
Trustee Thomas Lynn said past Trustee Millard Oakley wanted the opportunity to name a building after his wife.
“They look at Tennessee Tech as a way for the Upper Cumberland to try and improve itself and give opportunities to lots of kids who may be first generation college kids,” Lynn said. “He has really put generous amounts of money into Tech’s hands.”
This residence hall will combine an innovation space along with more than 300 residential spaces. The estimated price tag is $30 million, which will be funded through student rental income. Construction is expected to begin in 2022, with completion in 2023.
