McDowell Technical Community College recently celebrated the dedication and ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Crane Resistoflex Auditorium, marking the first major renovation of the facility since it was constructed in the early 1970s.
The renovation enhances one of the college’s most important gathering spaces with new seating and carpet, upgraded lighting, and a state-of-the-art sound system. These improvements will provide an enhanced experience for student performances, commencements, lectures, and community events for years to come.
The project was made possible through strong community partnership and support from McDowell County Government, McDowell County Schools, and the William Harold Smith Charitable Trust.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in the College’s Cedar Building, where the Crane Resistoflex Auditorium is located. The program included welcome remarks by Dr. J.W. Kelley, President of McDowell Technical Community College, along with comments from Gary Stroud, Chair of the college’s Board of Trustees; Terry Frank, Chair of the McDowell County Board of Education; and Tony Brown, Chair of the McDowell County Board of Commissioners. Mitch Goodson attended the event representing the William Harold Smith Charitable Trust.
Dr. Kelley expressed appreciation for the collaborative investment that made the renovation possible.
“This renovation reflects what makes McDowell County special—partners working together to invest in education, opportunity, and community,” said Dr. Kelley. “The Crane Resistoflex Auditorium has served generations of students and citizens, and thanks to the support of our community partners, it will continue to be a place where people come together to learn, celebrate, and be inspired. This project helps ensure that our facilities remain modern, welcoming, and where students can truly feel that they are Right Where They Belong.”
The auditorium was named for Crane Resistoflex several years ago in recognition of a significant contribution made by the Crane Foundation, providing general support for the college and its students. Since 1989, Crane Charitable Funds, including the Crane Fund for Women and Children and the Crane Foundation, has contributed more than $361,000 in support of scholarships, child care programs, Camp Opportunity, and the college endowment. College leaders expressed appreciation for the company’s longstanding commitment to McDowell Technical Community College and the local workforce.
“McDowell County Government is proud to support improvements that strengthen educational opportunities and enhance resources for our citizens,” said Tony Brown, Chair of the McDowell County Board of Commissioners. “The Crane Resistoflex Auditorium is an important community asset, and this renovation ensures that students, families, and organizations across our county will benefit from a modern, high-quality space for learning, events, and community engagement. Investments like this reflect our commitment to the future of McDowell County.”
The renovation project team included Holland and Hamrick Architects, P.A.; Neill Grading & Construction Co., Inc.; and MusiCraft Systems, which provided the upgraded sound and lighting systems.
The Crane Resistoflex Auditorium serves as a central venue for academic ceremonies, student activities, cultural events, and community gatherings—supporting the college’s mission of providing learning opportunities that strengthen individuals, employers, and the region.
For more information about McDowell Technical Community College and upcoming events, visit www.mcdowelltech.edu.
