The Neeley Center

The Ronald L. Neeley Conference and Hospitality Center at Terra State Community College opened on November 1st, 2013. It was named after former Graphics faculty member Ron Neeley, made possible by a generous contribution by his sister and brother-in-law, Wanda & Arnold Coldiron. The building started out as the Early Learning Center, but was converted over to a conference center. The total cost of

this newly renovated space was $2.4 million and was funded with local funds from bonds and auxiliary operations. Construction was completed on time with KF Construction Inc. as the general contractor. The Neeley Center is a 9,700 square foot building with a 4,085 square foot Grand Hall. The Grand Hall will hold 250 people Banquet Style, and up to 300 Theatre Style. The facility can remain as one large Grand Hall or be subdivided to create up to 5 smaller meeting rooms to accommodate different size events. We have a State-of-the-art technology infrastructure, including building-wide wireless internet, which allows for multimedia use for conferencing events; Wireless microphones, with incorporated sound system; and Ceiling-mounted, retractable projectors and screens. We boast a fully functional, professional kitchen available for use by our pre-qualified caterers. They will have use of not only the kitchen, but our flatware and service ware. No need to rent dishes when hosting an event at The Neeley Center. The Neeley Center maintains comparable rental rates found in the local community and surrounding area. For instance, clients will be charged only $100 for our smallest room up to $999.00 rent for the entire Grand Hall for an all-day event. We even offer discounted rates for Not-for-Profit organizations, and ½ day events lasting less than 4 hours. Not only does The Neeley Center serves as the site of meetings, conferences, and social/community events, but also provides an event planning learning laboratory for the college’s hospitality management program. This program concentrates on dining, banquet, special events, beverage and front desk experiences for the students. In the new space, students learn planning, coordination of setup and teardown, assistance with hosting receptions and providing services during special events. Having this hands-on practical application will give students an edge in the ever growing hospitality job market.