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Harrelson Hall is the first cylindrical classroom structure ever built on a university campus. It has a 206 foot diameter and provides an unusual focal point for the university plaza--a brick-paved courtyard reminiscent of St. Mark's Square in Venice. Halls and faculty offices are located on the rim, while lecture rooms are along the inner part of the building. The structure is honored with the name of John William Harrelson (1885-1955), the first alumnus to serve NC State as chief administrator.

As a student in mechanical engineering, he demonstrated his leadership skills president of the senior class, president of the Mechanical Society, captain of the student military unit, class historian, business manager of the Agromeck, and valedictorian of the class of 1907. Harrelson paid his expenses by pressing the clothes of fellow classmates, working nights for 12 cents an hour, and turning out the campus lights each night at 11 pm. By 1933, Harrelson had become full professor and head of the Deparent of Mathematics. From 1934-1953, Harrelson was dean of administration and chancellor, taking leave of absence to serve as a Colonel in WWI, and Deputy Chief of specialized training in WWII. Harrelson, known as "Colonel" by students and faculty, became college archivist when he retired. He left a $100,000 donation to NC State for art purchases and a lecture series.

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