The oldest building on campus is getting one of the oldest names on campus.
The Administration Building is being renamed the Frank A. Bracken Administration Building.
The board of trustees approved the dedication in honor of Frank Bracken's 30th anniversary with Ball State's governing body, according to a press release. His is the longest term of service in university history.
Bracken has served as vice president of the board for 18 years. He served as president for seven years before stepping down in 1989 to accept an appointment as undersecretary of the interior from then-President George H.W. Bush.
Bracken and his family are being honored for their philanthropic work as well. For most of his time on the board of trustees, Bracken has served as a member of the George and Frances Ball Foundation Board, which combined with his own independent donations, has given or pledged $40 million to Ball State.
"Although his record longevity on the board of trustees is cause enough for celebration, Frank Bracken's service to Ball State goes much deeper than just his board membership," President Jo Ann Gora said in a press release. "Frank's leadership has been integral to Ball State's growth into a comprehensive and cutting-edge university for the 21st century."
The Administration Building was built between 1898 and 1899 at the cost of $33,000. In 1999, the building received a $3 million renovation. Although it initially included classrooms, laboratories and a library, the building serves as the center for business affairs, enrollment, marketing and communications, as well as contains the president's office.
The Bracken Administration Building shares its name with two other university buildings. Bracken Library was named after Frank Bracken's father, Alexander M. Bracken, who served as president of the board for 22 years. The Bracken House, Frank Bracken's childhood home, is Gora's official residence.
Frank Bracken is also the grandson of Frank C. Ball, who founded the Indiana State Normal School Eastern Division with his four brothers. The school was renamed Ball State Teachers College, then Ball State University in 1929 and 1965, respectively.
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