The Oval
Innovation and Community in Nature
The Oval, one of NC State’s 10 Hallowed Places, is the heart of Centennial Campus life. Designed as both a scenic retreat and a collaborative hub, it brings together students, faculty, researchers and industry partners in a shared green space. Surrounded by engineering buildings, corporate offices and research labs, the Oval embodies Centennial’s mission of blending education with real-world application.
Its wide lawn, tree-lined paths and shaded seating areas make it a favorite spot to unwind, meet up with friends or attend campus events. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon of studying or a lively outdoor gathering, the Oval offers a balance of community and calm in the middle of an innovative campus.
Meet Kevin. He’ll guide you around the Oval:
Roots of Innovation
The land that became Centennial Campus, including the Oval, was first donated in 1984 to bring research, industry and education together in one visionary space.
Where Tradition Thrives
In 2023, the Oval joined NC State’s Hallowed Places, recognizing its growing role in the university’s story and the heart of Centennial Campus.
A Line Through History
The Oval’s centerline was purposefully aligned with the Memorial Belltower, Holladay Hall and Lake Raleigh Woods, symbolically linking four Hallowed Places across campus.
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Areas of Study Spotlight
Dive deeper into some of the innovative academic programs and departments that define NC State’s excellence, many of which have a strong presence on Centennial Campus.