Through the years, Kirk Auditorium has held many assemblies, graduations, dances, concerts, plays, operas, and memorial services.
John R. Kirk
President Emeritus and Professor of Psychology & Philosophy of Education, 1925-1937
History of the Kirk Building
After World War I, enrollment jumped at what was then known as Northeast Missouri State Teachers College. A new building containing an auditorium and gymnasium was needed on our campus. To begin this project, the 55st Missouri General Assembly passed an appropriations bill that included money to pay for such a building, and it was signed by Gov. Arthur M. Hyde in 1921. Then, the cornerstone was laid and the building was dedicated to college President John R. Kirk on July 12, 1922, with the official opening of Kirk Auditorium on April 24, 1923.
Sociability Hall, as the first floor became known, was a common area where students could meet and mingle. On both sides of it were classrooms and other educational spaces. Over the next 100 years many different offices and services occupied those rooms. The second and third floors together made a two-story auditorium that doubled as a gymnasium where the basketball team played until 1958 when they moved to the newly built Pershing Arena.
As of 2025, the Kirk Building has been transformed into a Student Success Center, home to the following services:
Historical Timeline
1921
The State Legislature appropriated $200,000 to build the “Auditorium-Gymnasium." Then, the Board of Regents entered into a contract with R.H. Sanneman, a Kansas City architect, soon after.
1922
The cornerstone was placed and sealed with various artifacts, with a note that stated "For Future Generations." Shortly after, the building was named and dedicated "John R. Kirk Auditorium" on July 12th.
1923
John R. Kirk Auditorium opened to the public on April 24th.
Kirk Auditorium, 1923.
1959
After recommendation from President Ryle, the Board of Regents changed the name to “Kirk Building” to avoid confusion with the in-construction Baldwin Auditorium.
1971
With the Student Union Building and Pershing Arena taking much of the traffic, Student Affairs began talks of renovating the Kirk Gym for a "free play activity program" for students.
1998
The Kirk Gym closed due to safety concerns and a desire to utilize newer campus facilities.
2003
Minor renovations were completed in the Kirk Gym. Parts of fretwork and ceiling molding were donated to Special Collections
2020
Kirk Building officially closed to students, and was primarily used for storage during this time.
2022
Renovation project was proposed in February 2022.
2023
Demolition of Kirk building began. The crews largely gutted out the old interior, while keeping the traditional exterior.
2025
Renovations for the Kirk Building were completed, and offices moved in shortly after.
