Venue History

Albert H. Anderson Center

The Anderson Center is a 9,200 square-foot facility that serves as the comprehensive conference site at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU). The Center is named for Mr. Albert H. Anderson, a life-long educator who served in the local schools for more than three decades. The school which bore his name was purchased from the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools in 1981 and renovated to accommodate several academic programs and to provide an all-purpose meeting area for the campus and the community. In recognition of Mr. Anderson's achievements and contributions, WSSU retained the name when the Center was officially dedicated in 1987.

The Anderson Center is conveniently located adjacent to the main campus, just off Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive. It features meeting rooms, a formal dining area, large banquet room and a 400-seat auditorium. Catering service provided by WSSU Catering Services - Aramark and a variety of audio-visual equipment are available.

The Center's mission is to provide excellent conference facilities, services, and programs that serve the campus community as well as external use by governmental agencies, corporations, non-profit agencies and business associations.

Kenneth R. Williams Auditorium

The Kenneth R. Williams Auditorium is a multi-level brick and steel structure containing approximately 49,000 square feet. The auditorium is named after the late Kenneth R. Williams, the fifth Chancellor of Winston-Salem State University. Dr. Williams retired in June 1977. At the time of his retirement, he had been in service to the university for over thirty-five years.

This grand facility has an array of sound and lighting possibilities and has hosted many events, from a Broadway production of Dreamgirls, actor and comedian Bernie Mac, musical performances by the Fugees, Anita Baker and The Winans to the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and National Black Theatre Festival. Kenneth R. Williams Auditorium is now a home venue for the Winston-Salem Symphony's Side-by-Side Concert Series.

Primarily used for convocations, assemblies, academic and cultural programs, K.R. Williams also offers many opportunities for community cultural events, lectures, musical concerts and for corporate and civic recognition occasions. The auditorium has a main floor and balcony with a total seating capacity of 1655. It features a Green Room, dressing rooms and a large main lobby.