Student Success Center, Georgia State University

Student Success Center, Georgia State University
Atlanta - Fulton County

The two buildings that now house Georgia State University’s Student Success Center at 25–27 Auburn Ave. were originally constructed for the Southern Bell Telephone Company to serve Atlanta’s early telephone exchanges. Designed in 1907 and 1922, the buildings helped introduce telecommunications technology in the city. After Southern Bell ceased operations, the structures sat vacant for decades and suffered severe deterioration. Beginning in 2016, the Georgia State University Foundation undertook a $30 million comprehensive rehabilitation to restore more than 62,000 sq. feet of historic space. The project prioritized retention of historic fabric, including restoration of the cornice and bell insignia, cleaning and repair of masonry and terracotta using custom mortars, and in-kind replacement of historic steel windows. The rehabilitation returned these landmark Auburn Avenue buildings to productive use as the home of GSU’s National Institute for Student Success, supporting education while preserving Atlanta’s built heritage. 

Excellence in Rehabilitation Awards recognize projects that make compatible use of a building through repair, alterations or additions while preserving features of the property that convey its historic value.