The renovated Myles Center for the Arts – part learning space, part performance space – is creating a renaissance for the arts on the Davis & Elkins College campus.
Thanks to the vision, leadership and generous financial support of Trustee June Myles, the arts have a new home – with beautiful, engaging spaces that reward the creative spirit.
By upgrading existing facilities, Myles was able to meet the College’s needs without starting over. She and then-President G.T. ‘Buck’ Smith found needed resources in Hermanson Center. Working together, they made the spaces ‘smarter,’ and new again.
“My hope is that all in the D&E community will learn to love the arts in whatever capacity they choose,” Myles says. “I also hope those in the Randolph County community will take advantage of the updated facility.”
The Myles Center houses Harper-McNeeley Auditorium – the largest performance hall in the region. Renovations to the facility include new lighting, installation of a new sound system with sophisticated controls to provide a better presentation for every performance, and all new seating with higher backs and improved ergonomic design.
The lobby area has also been redesigned with new carpeting and gallery lighting for revolving works. Plus, restrooms have been significantly expanded and upgraded. Additional improvements include:
Augusta store – Books, CDs, DVDs and other merchandise from Augusta Heritage Center are now front and center with a store in the Myles Center lobby. Attractive display windows showcase merchandise as well as other information from D&E programs.
The Stirrup Gallery – Dedicated in March, the space houses the Darby Collection – a rare and unique collection of everyday items dating back to the pre-historic era.
Visual and Graphic Arts Classrooms – Extensive upgrades to the lower level of the Myles Center have transformed approximately 7,000 square feet into a new art department consisting of studio space, reception area, technology labs and offices.
Dance Studio – A multipurpose room on the lower level has been refurbished with a new floor and mirrors to provide space for the College’s new Dance program.
Davis & Elkins College Trustee June Myles stands before the Myles Center for the Arts.
