A large lecture hall, a state-of-the-art computer lab, and much-needed office space is part of a new Annex at Warren County Community College.

College staff, local officials, College trustees and members of the public gathered on Wed. Dec. 19 for the official dedication of the state-funded Annex on the College’s Washington Township campus.

“This is exciting although somewhat bittersweet,” said Dr. Will Austin, President of WCCC. “It’s the biggest project we’ve completed in a while, and certainly for the foreseeable future the last one.”   

The Annex, built through a state referendum that Warren County voters supported, and was overwhelmingly approved by New Jersey residents several years ago, gives the College the opportunity to continue its mission of providing quality education to its students while also benefiting the community at-large. Funding for the over $1.5 million project came predominately from the higher education bond. 

“This project is truly a return on our investment,” said Dr. Phil Linfante, Chair of the Board of Trustees at the College. “We didn’t get a grant the first time around but thanks to the support of our freeholders and legislators and meetings with officials in Trenton we succeeded in the second round. This building you are now standing in would not have happened otherwise.”Dr. Linfante continued, “This is a win-win for the county, our students, and for the citizens, because not only will the students use it, but the community will also be able to use the large lecture hall and the facility.”

“We have to stay competitive with other colleges and this building is part of that effort,” added Freeholder Rick Gardner, whose two children both went to WCCC. 

The one-story, 6,700 square foot project features a 124-seat lecture hall that can be used for classes as well as community events, as well as a 30-seat computer lab. Additionally, there are ADA compliant restrooms, a spacious lobby area, and an outdoor patio where students can gather. The hallway connecting the College’s East Wing to the new Annex was previously dedicated as the Hall of Fame hallway. The hallway showcases Warren County Hall of Famers with plaques and memorabilia. 

Among the officials on hand for the ceremony were State Sen. Michael Doherty, Assemblyman John DiMaio, and Freeholders Edward Smith, Jason Sarnoski and Gardner, and newly elected Freeholder James Kern III.

Photo by Cathy Miller