About us

Pollard Center celebrates a rich history. Originally called Pollard Auditorium, the facility 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. Undergoing two major renovations in 2003 and 2024, the historic auditorium is an inviting and modern conference center.

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