The Aubrey K. Lucas Administration Building is the most prominent building on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi. It is named after one of the universities more popular and longest serving Presidents, Dr.

Aubrey K. Lucas Dr. Aubrey K. Lucas is an American academician, and the former President and current President Emeritus of the University of Southern Mississippi. Lucas received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees from the University of Southern Mi ...

. The Administration building houses many various offices most importantly the Office of the President. The building was completed in 1930.

The Dome

In the administration building, an area referred to by USM students and staff as "The Dome" can be found directly ahead, when entering campus from the Hardy Street main entrance. The Dome of the administration building is prominently featured on the Southern Miss seal, and is the official logo of the university in its non-athletic entity.Seal of USM
/ref> The fountain in front of The Dome was built in 1972.

Hurricane Katrina

In 2005, the building was heavily damaged by

Hurricane Katrina Hurricane Katrina was a destructive Category 5 Atlantic hurricane that caused over 1,800 fatalities and $125 billion in damage in late August 2005, especially in the city of New Orleans and the surrounding areas. It was at the time the cost ...

. Since then, the copper panels have been replaced on the dome portion of the building, restoring it to its original look, before the copper slowly turned to green over time after oxidation.

2015 work

An estimated two-year, $2.55 million renovation of the building's foundation and exterior details began in September 2015.

References

{{Coord, 31.32656, -89.3327, type:landmark_region:US-MS, display=title University of Southern Mississippi campus Mississippi Landmarks 1930 establishments in Mississippi Office buildings completed in 1930 University and college administration buildings in the United States University and college buildings completed in 1930