William E. Kirwan Hall

Did anyone ever imagine a math building becoming a namesake? Here at the William E. Kirwan Hall, we uncover the story of how a math building transformed into a testament to a remarkable man. William E. Kirwan Hall was originally the University of Maryland’s Mathematics Building. It became William E. Kirwan Hall in 2015. This renaming honored the legacy of William “Brit” Kirwan. His journey began in 1964 when a young, apprehensive Brit Kirwan first stepped into this very building as a newly appointed assistant professor of mathematics. Little did he know then that this building would one day bear his name. Kirwan’s connection to this place spans an impressive 51 years. His career trajectory took him from assistant professor to department chair, then university president, and ultimately, Chancellor of the University System of Maryland. His impact resonated far beyond the walls of this building. He championed initiatives like the Closing the Achievement Gap program. This program significantly narrowed the gap in academic achievement for minority students. He also spearheaded the Course Redesign Initiative. This forward-thinking initiative integrated technology to revamp entire courses. Kirwan’s dedication to education extended to the national stage. He even advised President Obama on critical higher education issues. The building itself, constructed in 1952-1953 by architectural firm Hall, Borden & Donaldson, stands as a symbol of Kirwan’s enduring impact on the university and the broader educational landscape. William E. Kirwan Hall isn’t just a building. It’s a tribute to a man who dedicated his life to education and tirelessly championed access and excellence for all.