Troy University releases statement about Malone Hall

Troy University has released a statement regarding the condition of Malone Hall, which houses the departments of art and design and theater and dance.

The statement comes after the Tropolitan published an article on Sept. 26 detailing multiple fire hazards, health concerns and safety risks — including a rotted ceiling tile that fell while a class was in session.

Emily Mosier photo A portion of the fallen ceiling tile sits on a classroom table in Malone Hall. It has since been removed by Troy University's physical plant.

The statement from Troy University is as follows: 

“Troy University is fully committed to providing clean, safe and comfortable learning environments for our students, faculty and staff. The condition of Malone Hall is a serious concern for senior leaders. A number of long-term solutions are under consideration including relocation of classes, replacing the roof or construction of a new building and subsequent demolition of Malone Hall.

"Although University Physical Plant has been engaged in addressing maintenance challenges in the building, responding to more than 40 work requests in the past six months, the maintenance process is being carefully evaluated to ensure that issues are being resolved quickly and up to University standards. Crews are working to address all current maintenance issues as quickly as possible.

"University leaders are committed to providing a permanent solution to problems in Malone Hall, or providing new space to house these programs.” 

Since the publication of the article about Malone Hall, physical plant has begun removing and replacing ceiling tiles with any visible stains or water damage. Maintenance workers also began marking a map to notate leaks. 

Emily Mosier photo Maintenance workers begin replacing ceiling tiles in Malone Hall while classes were cancelled due to weather.

Due to tropical storms from Hurricane Helene, Malone Hall sustained more damage from the rains on Thursday. 

Many of the new ceiling tiles already have visible water pooling on them, and a new leak caused water to fall on a laser cutter worth $25,000.  

Greg Skaggs, department chair of Art and Design, said he has presented issues of Malone Hall many times in the past. 

“I have made several presentations to upper administration related to the vision of art and design and the future of our program as well as the state of our facilities,” Skaggs said. “I have presented annotated photos of the state of Malone to the dean of the college of communication and fine arts to which he has been a strong advocate for the health and well-being of our students and faculty.

“My hope is that the University sees the value that the visual arts, as well as theatre and dance, adds to the overall health and enrichment to Troy University. We have a phenomenal faculty and with the support, Troy University could be the finest Visual Arts program in the region. No doubt.”

The Tropolitan is closely covering the condition of Malone Hall and will continue to update as more information comes to light.