The Pollard Technology Conference Center celebrates a rich history. Originally called the Pollard Auditorium, it was built in 1981-1982 in honor of the founder of Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU), Dr. William G. Pollard. Dr. Pollard led the establishment of ORAU in 1946 to serve as a conduit between researchers at southern universities and the state-of-the-art laboratories in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

The facility has provided office and meeting space in support of ORAU’s continued growth as well as a gathering place for local community events. In October 2003, the facility was closed for extensive renovations. When the doors re-opened in April 2004, the historic auditorium had been transformed into a modern conference center, filled with the latest technology.

The $1.4 million renovation project was bolstered by an almost-million dollar Small Business Administration grant secured by U.S. Congressman Zach Wamp in cooperation with the city of Oak Ridge.

The Pollard Technology Conference Center represents an important tie between ORAU and the city of Oak Ridge, offering citizens as well as community and government organizations a place to gather for meetings and special events.