Cohen Center for Holocaust & Genocide Studies

Keene State College

Location: Keene, NH

Total GSF: 1,440 GSF Renovation, 7,460 GSF Addition

Completed: 2019

The Cohen Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies is one of the oldest Holocaust resource centers in the United States. Located at Keene State College, NH, the Center’s mission is “To Remember…and to Teach.” By studying and bearing witness to the Holocaust and genocide, students take responsibility for building a world free of antisemitism, intolerance, and hate. Situated in the campus historic core, the project consists of an 8,000 sf addition wrapping the northwest corner of the Mason Library. The design consolidates the academic program and the Cohen Center in a single location, strengthening their shared mission and physical presence. The gallery, flexible classroom, lecture hall and interstitial spaces are designed to encourage collaboration and synergy between the programs. A spirit of warmth, openness, and contemplation permeates the entire center. On the exterior, the light rockface brick and sculptural form creates a dynamic and timeless presence on Appian Way.