Azikiwe-Nkrumah Hall, built in 1865, is the oldest building on campus. It was built during the Civil War when the university was originally known as Ashmun Institute. Initially a residence for professors, the building later became the African Center and was later used as campus security offices. It is named for two distinguished alumni, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe ’30, the first president of Nigeria, and Dr. Kwame Nkrumah ’39, the first president of Ghana.
In 2021, the building underwent a complete renovation, preserving the Hall's historic elements, including its brick, windows, and trim. The design preserves as many historic elements as possible while providing for the functional necessities of staff and students. The Pennsylvania Department of General Services funded the project at $3.4 million. Azikiwe-Nkrumah Hall now houses the offices for the Division of Institutional Advancement.
