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Paul Quinn College in Dallas unveils first new buildings in 40 years

Paul Quinn College, like most nationwide, was forced to shut down its campus to students because of the pandemic. President Michael Sorrell talked with school officials about how they could turn this into an opportunity to grow.

“We said, ‘What can we do if students didn’t come back to campus for 18 months?’” Sorrell recalled.

On Tuesday the college celebrated its first new buildings on campus in 40 years. The nearly $20 million makeover included the Trammell S. Crow Living and Learning Center — a residence hall that will house 135 students — and a wellness center that contains athletic facilities and more.

While other colleges opened campuses up — at least partially — Paul Quinn only offered classes virtually because of the pandemic. The school will go back to in-person learning this fall.

So Paul Quinn opened its doors to the public this week, allowing community members to tour the new amenities — which include a new jogging trail — as the college reintroduces itself. The festivities also included a free on-site COVID-19 vaccination clinic and performances by music groups.

“I haven’t been here in a year because of COVID,” said Camron Powell, 20, a junior at the school. “This is my first time coming back, and it’s actually amazing.”

Powell heard about the plans and projects the college wanted to tackle as a freshman and was excited to see them finished before graduating.

“We’re growing very quickly,” Powell said.

Those driving by the campus can now see a “We Over Me” sign on the new wellness center that highlights the college’s belief that “the needs of a community must always supersede the wants of an individual.”

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