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Kentucky State University (KSU) held a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand reopening of the Bert T. Combs Hall on February 25, 2025. The newly reopened residence hall includes upgraded bathrooms, redesigned laundry rooms, new kitchen and reception space, ADA-compliant walkways, and much more.

“The grand reopening of Bert T. Combs Hall testifies to Kentucky State University’s commitment to the maintenance and improvement of our great institution and its campus. A once struggling building, today, Bert T. Combs Hall stands as a symbol of progress and student-focused investment,” said KSU President, Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo.

KSU partnered with Schmidt Associates, CMTA, KPFF, Element Design, and Devere Construction to reimagine Bert T. Combs Hall with a design focused on durability, sustainability, and student well-being. Veena Reddy was the lead architect for the project.

“The Schmidt Associates transformation team is incredibly proud to partner with the University to provide exceptional residential space that is focused on KSU student happiness, health, inclusivity, and modern amenities- All while sustainably revitalizing an existing legacy building- Bert T. Combs Hall,” said Project Architect Veena Reddy.

Among attendees at the ceremony included Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education President, Dr. Aaron Thompson, and former Governor Bert T. Combs’ wife, Judge Sara Walter Combs.
“The education of our citizens is the wisest investment for the future of all of society. For enlightened minds alone are our hope for the future. KSU is truly dedicated to that noble enterprise. Long may it flourish!” said Judge Combs.

This renovation marks the first step in KSU’s larger effort to improve campus housing and enhance service to its students.