Randolph residence hall receives LEED certification

Wright Hall

Wright Hall is the first building on the Randolph campus to receive Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.

The 108-year-old residence hall underwent major renovations last year, including the installation of a new HVAC system, an elevator, new furniture, new laundry rooms, and remodeled restrooms. Specific improvements were incorporated to make the building more environmentally friendly, and the College has received LEED Silver certification for its efforts.

“This certification is yet another recognition of Randolph’s ongoing efforts to become more sustainable,” said Sara Woodward ’16, Randolph sustainability coordinator. “Energy and water efficiency is more difficult with older buildings, so I am especially proud that we have a LEED Silver residence hall on our historic campus.”

LEED certification is based on a points system in various categories, such as site selection, water efficiency, and energy efficiency. From those scores, buildings receive one of four possible certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold, or Platinum.

Woodward said Wright Hall earned points specifically for its high efficiency faucets and toilets, access to public transportation, low-emitting materials, and energy efficient light controls. The residence hall gained additional points because it was renovated with reused materials and because the College responsibly managed construction waste.

The renovation project was made possible thanks to generous alumnae gifts. During the grand re-opening of the building last year, the College recognized Vita Abundantior Society members Susan Braselton Fant ’84 and her husband, Lester “Ruff” Fant, for their financial and other support throughout the project. Also recognized for their support of the renovation were Emerita Trustee Betty Nichols Street ’66 and her husband, David Street, a former trustee.

“This is our first LEED building,” Woodward said. “But as the College’s Sustainability Plan states, we will seek at least LEED Silver certification for any future projects.”