From 1907 to Today: South Georgia State College Celebrates the Renewal of Peterson Hall

South Georgia State College celebrated a special milestone with the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated Peterson Hall, one of the College’s original campus buildings constructed in 1907–1908.

A Legacy Built on Community

South Georgia State College was honored to welcome special guests in attendance, including University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue and a host of other friends of the College.

The celebration honored SGSC’s rich history, beginning with the founding of the Eleventh District Agricultural and Mechanical School in 1906 and the generosity of Coffee County citizens who helped secure Douglas as the school’s home. From Mr. Peterson’s donation of 300 acres of land to the City of Douglas providing water and electricity, the College’s story has always been rooted in community support.

A Building Made for Today’s Students

Today, Peterson Hall continues that legacy by serving students in new and meaningful ways. The renovation includes modern nursing skills and simulation labs, a dedicated computer lab to support online testing and NCLEX-RN preparation, updated instructional spaces, and the preservation of historic features such as the original tongue-and-groove flooring.

A Stage for the Community

The historic auditorium also remains an important space for college programs, student activities, guest speakers, performances, and community events.

Past Meets Future

Peterson Hall now stands as a powerful connection between SGSC’s past and future, preserving the history of the institution while creating modern spaces that inspire learning, ambition, and achievement for generations to come.