Baker Hall, located on the campus of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, is a significant academic building that serves as the home for the College of Humanities and Fine Arts. Constructed in the early 20th century, Baker Hall has a rich history and has undergone several transformations to accommodate the evolving needs of the university community. The building is named after George F. Baker, a prominent banker and philanthropist who donated $100,000 to the university in 1914 for the construction of a new building to house the departments of English, History, and Philosophy.
Architectural Significance and History
Baker Hall was designed in the Collegiate Gothic style by the architectural firm of Allen & Collens, which was a prominent firm in the early 20th century known for its work on academic buildings. The building’s design features a mix of limestone, brick, and granite, with a prominent clock tower that has become a recognizable landmark on the UMass Amherst campus. The construction of Baker Hall began in 1915 and was completed in 1916, with a total cost of $225,000. The building was officially dedicated on November 11, 1916, and has since become an integral part of the university’s academic landscape.
Academic Departments and Programs
Baker Hall is currently home to several academic departments and programs within the College of Humanities and Fine Arts, including the Department of English, the Department of History, and the Department of Philosophy. The building also houses the university’s Writing Center, which provides writing support services to students across the campus. Additionally, Baker Hall is home to the UMass Amherst Humanities and Fine Arts Advising Center, which provides academic advising and support services to students majoring in humanities and fine arts disciplines.
| Department | Programs and Majors |
|---|---|
| English | Bachelor of Arts in English, Master of Arts in English, Doctor of Philosophy in English |
| History | Bachelor of Arts in History, Master of Arts in History, Doctor of Philosophy in History |
| Philosophy | Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Master of Arts in Philosophy, Doctor of Philosophy in Philosophy |
Renovations and Upgrades
Over the years, Baker Hall has undergone several renovations and upgrades to improve its infrastructure and facilities. In 2004, the building underwent a major renovation project that included the installation of new heating and cooling systems, the upgrade of electrical and plumbing systems, and the renovation of classrooms and offices. The project also included the creation of new study spaces and lounge areas for students, as well as the installation of new technology infrastructure to support teaching and research.
Sustainability Initiatives
UMass Amherst has made a commitment to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint, and Baker Hall has been a key part of these efforts. The building has been equipped with energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, and the university has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce energy consumption and waste. These initiatives include the use of recycled materials in construction projects, the implementation of recycling programs, and the promotion of sustainable transportation options for students and staff.
- Energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems
- Recycling programs for paper, plastic, and glass
- Use of recycled materials in construction projects
- Promotion of sustainable transportation options, including public transportation and carpooling
What academic departments are housed in Baker Hall?
+Baker Hall is home to the Department of English, the Department of History, and the Department of Philosophy, as well as the Writing Center and the Humanities and Fine Arts Advising Center.
What sustainability initiatives has UMass Amherst implemented in Baker Hall?
+UMass Amherst has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives in Baker Hall, including the use of energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, recycling programs, and the promotion of sustainable transportation options.
