Butler Hall renovations enhance computer science facilities for students and faculty

Butler Hall ribbon cutting — �� President Mark E. Keenum, center, cuts the ribbon unveiling the newly renovated Butler Hall, flanked by Interim Dean Robert Green of the Bagley College of Engineering, left, and Department of Computer Science and Engineering Head Shahram Rahimi, right, along with department faculty, staff and students who joined in celebrating the $5 million upgrades made for enhanced labs, modernized classrooms and improved amenities. (Photo by Grace Cockrell)

STARKVILLE, Miss.—Mississippi State’s Department of Computer Science and Engineering marked the completion of a transformative renovation project at Butler Hall with a recent ribbon cutting ceremony. ��

After two years of extensive work, the revamped facilities now offer enhanced labs, modernized classrooms and improved amenities—benefiting students, faculty and staff with an updated learning environment and more efficient space.

“These improvements are about more than just modernizing our facilities—they are a commitment to our students’ success,” said Department Head Shahram Rahimi. “The renovated spaces reflect our vision for a forward-thinking department and will support our mission of academic excellence and research innovation. These changes position us to meet the needs of both current and future generations of engineers.”

Video by Sarah Kirk

A special highlight of the more than $5 million renovation is the Cyber Security Lab, made possible through generous donations from the Hearin Foundation. Butler Hall also houses the �� Esports team, a student organization that competes nationally in more than 18 esports events.

Rahimi extended thanks to all who contributed to the Butler Hall improvements, with special appreciation for �� President Mark E. Keenum, whose leadership and support were instrumental in making this project a reality.

“Dr. Keenum’s dedication and commitment to this project were key in making these renovations happen. We are incredibly grateful for his support,” Rahimi said. “The renovated Butler Hall represents the university’s continued investment in cutting-edge research, teaching, and student success, providing an inspiring environment that reflects the institution's commitment to innovation and academic excellence.”

For more photos from the Butler Hall ribbon cutting, click .��

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�� President Mark E. Keenum, center, holds the university’s 2024 Esports Egg Bowl trophy—celebrating �� Esports new, upgraded facility in Butler Hall with student Esports team members. (Photo by Grace Cockrell)

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