It’s the same size and at on the same spot, but the new Maclay Building on the Northeast Community College campus is at a new level when it comes to keeping the college equipped to meet the next generations of learners.
Northeast Community College President Leah Barrett noted some of the features during a ribbon cutting on Wednesday afternoon, which was followed by tours and a Business After Hours event with the Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce.
Named after Northeast’s founding president, F. Don Maclay, Barrett noted the previous building served as a hub for classrooms, administrative offices, and countless student memories.
“If you recall its unique, original design…the octagonal shape and figure-eight design made it both a landmark and a bit of a maze for those navigating its halls,” Barrett said.
She noted that the Maclay Building was the first building on campus in 1970. Just like its predecessor, the new structure is in the heart of campus –- only now it is equipped to handle modern technology and conveniences.
The old Maclay was razed, with the new building constructed immediately afterward in the same location. Many parts of the old building were salvaged and used in other buildings or the new Maclay.
“Today, we celebrate a new chapter. This modern facility is designed to meet the needs of today’s learners — with natural light, updated technology, and collaborative spaces that reflect our vision for education in the 21st century. It’s a place where workforce development, adult education, English Language Learning, and academic excellence converge,” Barrett said.
Many thanks were expressed, including to Wilkins Architecture Design Planning, Kearney; the general contractor team: Hausmann Construction, Lincoln; mechanical: Merit Mechanical, Tilden; and electrical: Model Electric, Norfolk.
Barrett acknowledged Robert Cox and his lifelong spouse, HelenAnn, whose leadership in the 1970s and beyond helped shape the foundation of Northeast.
“Under his presidency, the college expanded its programs, facilities, and reach,” Barrett said. “His legacy lives on in the very fabric of our institution.”
Jeff Scherer of Beemer, the Northeast Community College Board of Governors chair, said Northeast continues to thrive, innovate, and serve students and communities with excellence as is shown by Wednesday’s celebration.
"As chair, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the incredible work happening across this campus — from the classroom to the community — and the Maclay Building is a shining example of that progress, Scherer said. "This space reflects what Northeast is all about: creating opportunities, fostering growth, and preparing students for success in a rapidly changing world."
Scherer thanked his fellow board members for their dedication, as well as the faculty, staff and administration for their work.
"And to our students — you are the reason we do what we do. Your ambition and resilience inspire us every day," Scherer said. "To President Barrett, thank you again for your vision and your commitment to Northeast’s mission. You’ve led us through transformation with clarity and heart, and today’s celebration is a reflection of that."
Charlene Widener, Northeast vice president of Educational Services, said the new Maclay is "not just a building, but a bold investment in our students and their futures."
"The Maclay Building is now home to some of Northeast’s most transformative programs: Adult Education, College Success, Workforce Development, and our Extended Campus Leadership Team. These programs serve learners from all walks of life — those returning to school, starting fresh, or building new skills to meet the demands of today’s workforce," Widener said. "This building is designed to be welcoming, flexible, and student focused. It is a place where learners will find support, encouragement, and the resources they need to thrive. Whether it’s earning a GED, preparing for college-level coursework, or engaging in career training, the work happening here is life-changing.”
Widener recognized the faculty and staff who led the efforts during the construction, along with the planning committee and the staff who made sure things were ready on the first day of classes in August.
They served as liaisons for the project as they focused on making the classrooms, offices, and common spaces serve the needs of Northeast learners, while allowing space and equipment to use innovative teaching methodologies.
"And as we look ahead, the Maclay Building will continue to evolve — adapting to the needs of our communities and the industries we serve. It will be a hub of innovation and opportunity for years to come," Widener said.
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting
Northeast Community College President Leah Barrett is joined by Robert Cox, Northeast’s second president, and Jeff Scherer, Northeast’s Board chair, during a ribbon cutting on Wednesday, October 15, to celebrate the opening of the new Maclay Building on the Northeast campus. (Northeast Community College)
