Moody Hall, the long-time home to the VMI Alumni Association, reopened fully to alumni and friends and the broader public Jan. 17, 2023.
During summer 2022, heavy rain caused leaks in the roof, and problems with the HVAC system allowed a heightened level of moisture in the building. In late July, the VMI Alumni Agencies became concerned about reports of mold developing in Moody Hall and had the building officially assessed. The inspection revealed the presence of mold in numerous areas of the building, requiring offices and scheduled events to be relocated to prepare for thorough mitigation. In addition to the mold, staff reported high temperatures throughout the building, making it uncomfortable for use as full-time office space.
In response, the VMI Alumni Agencies closed the building Aug. 1, 2022, and all employees went through the steps to relocate their workspaces to a remote work situation or were assigned available space in Neikirk Hall. Although this was not ideal, the team pulled together to continue their work in service to the VMI family.
The first step in resolving the issue was the matter of repairing or replacing the chillers or the building. The old system failed without warning just prior to its scheduled replacement in 2023. Parts to fix the system were no longer available and had to be custom-built overseas to solve the issue at hand, which took time. All mold mitigation was put on hold until the equipment was repaired.
After thorough mold mitigation work, which included removing the carpet and curtains in the Activities Room, thorough cleaning of spaces within the building, and regular air assessment, the building was reopened for safe use by the employees in December 2022. With a few finishing touches on the interiors, Moody Hall was deemed ready for outside visitors.
“We are delighted to have Moody Hall fully open for business, especially as the spring reunion season is just weeks away,” said Ed Johnson ’79, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer. “The reopening allows our staff to serve our alumni and the VMI family more effectively and better engage with visitors to post. I am looking forward to welcoming alumni back to their home here on post.”
Visitors can enter the building through the entrance on Letcher Avenue—look for Old Glory and the VMI flag—with access available from 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Individuals and groups interested in reserving the Activities Room and upstairs lounge or alumni who want overnight accommodations should contact Norma Robinson at 800-444-1839, ext. 243, or nrobinson@vmiaa.org. A webpage allowing online reservations for accommodations or facilities at Moody Hall is now available by submitting the request form below.
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Scott Belliveau '83 Communications Officer - Executive Projects
The communications officer supports the strategy for all communications, including web content, public relations messages and collateral pieces in order to articulate and promote the mission of the VMI Alumni Agencies and promote philanthropy among varied constituencies.
