Restoring a Legacy: Weld Hall’s Transformation Nears Completion

Weld Hall, Minnesota State Moorhead’s most iconic academic building and the oldest on campus, is undergoing its most ambitious renovation in over a century—and the vision is coming to life. Originally constructed in 1914, this beloved building is experiencing a complete transformation that will serve students, faculty and the community for generations.

As construction progresses, different sections of the century-old structure reveal their potential.

The upper level, which will house the Department of English and the Dean’s Suite for the College of Arts and Humanities, is furthest along. Framing and sheetrock are complete and taping and finishing have begun.

“We’re getting to that point where it looks really nice,” said Brenda Norris, executive director of Facilities Management.

The main level presented unforeseen challenges, particularly with the renovation of the Glasrud Auditorium. Demolition revealed that the auditorium floor was several inches lower than adjacent areas, requiring creative solutions to align everything. Meanwhile, crews are carefully selecting auditorium seating and custom wood stains to match the building’s warm, traditional aesthetic.

The lower level will include classrooms, mechanical rooms, and a green screen space. Walls are framed here, but progress is a few steps behind the other floors. Some of the finishes on the lower level needed to wait for mechanical equipment and infrastructure to go in first,” Norris said.

 Significant structural improvements are also taking place, including new windows for the entire building, new roofing and raised walls to accommodate thicker roof insulation. The exterior is also getting attention through comprehensive tuck-pointing, where mortar between each brick is being carefully restored.

One of the most striking additions will be the new canopy structure extending from the building toward Sixth Avenue South. This architectural feature requires massive steel beams that extend deep into the building for proper support, representing the kind of engineering precision that ensures the renovation will last another century.

As construction continues, a vibrant public art piece is in development. A suspended stained glass-inspired dragon, titled After We Rose, We Soared, is a reference to the history of the school, the dragon, and the power teachers have to change lives. Artist April Wagner will hand-blow lightweight glass elements using transparent and opal-colored glass inspired by the university’s three stained glass panels, emphasizing greens, blue-greens, and light blues, along with pinks, purples and gold accents.

It’s one more nod to Weld’s rich past and bright future.

The $23 million project will reopen in Fall of 2026, welcoming students, faculty, and community members into a space that blends tradition with innovation. It will serve as a cornerstone of campus life, combining historic character with modern functionality and providing exceptional outreach opportunities in the heart of Moorhead.