Marlene Hays doesn’t just want her name on New Hall 3, she and her husband, Spencer, who recently gave TCU $30 million, also want to work with the hall’s residents to build a sense of community in the university’s latest hall.

Hall residents will be meeting with the Hayses to discuss some of the donors’ personal goals to give the hall a sense of community, said Amanda Lagrone, Hays Hall director.

“This will help us develop an identity from here and begin to market and brand the hall,” she said.

On Tuesday, university officials announced that the couple had provided the leadership gift for a $100 million expansion of the Neeley School of Business. In honor of that gift, the new hall in Worth Hills will be named for Marlene Hays, said Lisa Albert, director of strategic communications.

Chancellor Victor Boschini described Marlene Hays as a philanthropist, community volunteer, and art collector. She attended TCU in the 1950s, before working a full-time job to support herself and her husband, he said.

“She is a gracious and warm woman who makes everyone in her presence feel better,” Boschini said.

The hall is part of TCU’s plan to increase its residential capacity.

“As the university works towards returning to its residential heritage, this building plays an important role in providing an on campus experience to more of our students,” said Kathy Cavins-Tull, vice chancellor for student affairs.

The 61,000 square-foot building stands four stories tall and accommodates about 160 upperclassman students in suite-style housing. Albert said Hays Hall is expected to receive a LEED, Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, silver certification.

The Hayses will be on campus for the hall dedication and ribbon cutting on Wednesday, October 15 at 11 a.m. Tours of the building will be offered during that time.