Mahoney-Pearson Residential College’s former room number plaques are now available for purchase, following the building’s demolition.
The University of Miami announced that the 68-year-old residential complex would be demolished and replaced with Gables Village, an upperclassmen housing complex, in November of 2025. Now, first year students are housed in Centennial Village, with overflow in Eaton Residential College and THesis Hotel.
UM announced that they will allow former residents, students, faculty and others to purchase the room number plaques that were placed on top of the Mahoney-Pearson dorm doors.
“Room numbers can carry sentimental value to anyone who has experienced living on campus,” said Liz Ingrao, director of housing staffing and development at UM. “We wanted to create a way to be able to keep the legacy, memories and history alive.”
Each room plaque goes for $125 and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once a room number is sold, it is no longer available for purchase. If a room number is not listed, however, this means it was damaged or went missing before the building was demolished.
According to UM’s website, the money will go to the Dr. Patricia A. Whitley Emergency Fund, which provides financial assistance to students facing unexpected challenges such as medical emergencies, housing challenges, family crises and other needs.
“The fund reflects [Dr. Whitely’s] longstanding commitment to supporting students through difficult circumstances and helps ensure they can remain focused on achieving their academic goals,” said the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and University Ombudsperson Dr. Jennifer Rau.
The idea connects to Ingrao on a more personal level. Her alma mater, Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY, tore down an old pink residence hall. The school decided to sell physical pieces of concrete from the building after alums, staff and students rallied behind the cause so they could have a keepsake from the time they lived in the building.
UM shares this sentiment: People who lived and worked in Mahoney-Pearson want the chance to purchase memorabilia.
A student’s experience on campus is unique to them. Where they lived is a memory that defines their time at college and leads to lasting memories.
“The room number can also be easily displayed in an office, apartment, or home. It’s small but carries so much meaning for people,” said Ingrao. “That way, people who purchase these room numbers have a way of honoring their past while investing in the future for our students and the University.”