NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) -
The empty stores at Hickory Hollow Mall are coming back to life - not for shoppers, but for students.
Nashville State Community College opened its sixth campus in the old mall Wednesday, and the ribbon cutting was just the beginning of plans to revive the entire area.
"We're excited to be here because of the location. It is the fastest-growing area of Davidson County," said LaDonna Yarborough, director of the Southeast campus.
Classes will Saturday in the 200,000-square-foot facility that used to belong to Dillard's.
"We have smart classrooms with the smart board and video conference rooms where a teacher can broadcast from one campus or to another campus. So there's a lot of opportunities there," Yarborough said.
Just like Nashville State's other five campuses, the Southeast campus will offer associate's degrees and one-year programs.
Elton Potter is one of the 750 students already enrolled at the new campus and is looking forward to having classes near home after spending two years driving across town.
"You're in traffic for 15 to 20 minutes before you get to class. If you wanted to prep for class, you really don't have time to. This is a hop, skip and a jump from many, many areas," Potter said.
The Tennessee Board of Regents awarded the college $7 million for the new campus project.
And a dual-credit program offered through the college allows high school students to earn college credits. That helped persuade Mayor Karl Dean to add the extra $1 million needed to open the campus and further education in the area.
Business leaders gathered at the ribbon cutting Wednesday expressed hope the campus will also help turn around surrounding property. Among the other developments planned for the area include a community center and park where the former J.C. Penney store was located.
Eventually, Nashville State's facility at Hickory Hollow will be able to accommodate 3,000 students.
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Mayor Dean at Wednesday's dedication ceremony.
