Sackett Building and Central Campus

The renovation of and additions to Sackett Building, which borders the Pattee Mall near the Allen Street Gates, is targeted for completion in fall 2027.  

Originally called the Main Engineering Building when it opened in 1930, the historic building was later renamed for Robert L. Sackett, who served as dean of engineering from 1915 to 1937. The project includes a complete remodel of the interior spaces; the addition of two new wings that are historically appropriate in scale and aesthetics to the original building design; and exterior site work that includes a new accessible pedestrian route.  

Once completed, Sackett will feature 12 general purpose classrooms and a knowledge commons. The building will also house multiple administrative offices for the college including the Dean’s Office, Career Resources & Employer Relations, Global Engineering Engagement, and the Leonhard Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Education. 

Additional projects on Central Campus include demolition of the 100-year-old-plus Engineering Units in 2025 and the demolition of Hammond Building in 2028, which combined will dramatically alter the corridor between West College Avenue and the Hintz Family Alumni Center. 

“Sackett has a long and important legacy for the College of Engineering, one that will continue for future generations. These renovations will return the exterior of the building to its original beauty while completely modernizing and expanding the interior spaces to provide premier classrooms and work areas for students, faculty, and staff. It will be a worthy front door for engineering at Penn State.” 

Tonya L. Peeples 
Harold and Inge Marcus Dean of Engineering