Jefferson Hall was completed in 1952 to provide space for the College of Optometry. It is named after Dr. Orlo Jefferson, a Portland area optometrist. In 1967, a major addition called "Brombach Hall" became the east wing and center section of the current building. Dr. Theodore Brombach was a national leader in the optometric field and also served on Pacific's Board of Trustees. For a few years the entire structure was called "Jefferson-Brombach Hall," but the name eventually reverted to Jefferson Hall.
The College of Optometry affiliated with Pacific University in 1945. At that time, classes and labs were held in the basement of Marsh Hall -- less than fitting location but the only space available at the time. Jefferson Hall was constructed in 1952, consisting of only two floors and a single wing. The building was named for Orlo Jefferson, O.D. who was instrumental in funding the initial facility. Jefferson Hall received a major renovation in the mid 1960's with the addition of a second wing, central building area connecting both wings, and the addition of a third floor. Since this renovation, Jefferson has not received any additional facility upgrades and expansion. Therefore the newly-completed Phase I $3.5 million building renewal of Jefferson Hall, and its many enhancements, is most welcome to the College's students, staff, faculty and patients. This renovation project consists of the following key facility enhancements which were identified as priorities by the users of Jefferson Hall:
-new building facade
-new clinical waiting, reception and Optical Shop areas
-two new and expansed Procedures Labs
-three new and technologically-advanced Primary classrooms, each handling 100 students
-new environmental control areas
-new student lounge area
-facilities for the handicapped including a building elevator
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