Xavier Hall, which now forms the “X” of the LXR Residence Hall, was constructed in 1944 for an estimated $82,000. The building was funded in part by aid furnished under the Lanham Act by the Federal Works Agency to create a residence for nurses enrolled in the Cadet Nurse Corps during World War II. At the time, the building was dedicated to Our Lady of Victory and named St. Mary’s Hall. After the new hospital was constructed, the nurses moved to a closer location in 1956.
Residence Hall
After the nurses relocated, the building transitioned into a student residence hall, and it became known as Xavier Hall. St. Francis Xavier studied with St. Ignatius at the University of Paris and became one of the first Jesuits. St. Xavier served as a missionary in China, Japan, and India.1
In 1967 Xavier began housing the University’s International Student House (ISH) which planned to host an equal number of foreign and American students would live. The University hoped that American students learning a foreign language and foreign students learning English would benefit from everyday conversations with one another. However, during its early years, the ISH tested the University policy prohibiting students taking English as a foreign language from living on campus. In its first year, only seven foreign students lived in the ISH community.2
In 1976, the ISH moved to Ryder Hall in order to make room for the Arts Project which provided a housing community for 70 undergraduate students who are "drawn together by an interest in the performing or fine arts. Whether through participation or appreciation, the student would be able to develop a talent or to explore new endeavors through the project.” The Arts Project included a large lounge for receptions and recitals, another for studio and classroom space, a practice room with a piano, a dining room, and a large kitchenette.3
Renovations
Xavier received several minor renovations over the years including a complete window replacement in 1981, a new heating system in 1983, and an upgraded fire alarm in 1985.
In 1994, Xavier Hall, along with Loyola Hall and Ryder Hall, was completely renovated for a total of $12.5 million. The three buildings received new plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems in addition to an interior reconfiguration that increased the number of beds from 90 to 280. Connecting bridges were built between the three buildings to create a single building, now known as LXR.
- 1Francis X. Ballman, "Xavier Hall," Building Outlines Campus Buildings, 1789 – 1995, Father Lawrence Hurley Memorial Edition, Francis X. Ballmann and the Division of Facilities, 1995, p. 104.
- 2Walt Foody. “International Student House Will Test University Policy.” The Hoya. 26 Oct. 1967, p. 11.
- 3Mark McAdams, “Yokie Arts Floor Approval Will Move ISH to Ryder.” The Hoya. 6 Feb. 1976, p. 5.
