Building the Future of Science at Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ
The application of scientific inquiry to pressing real-world problems like climate change and public heath crises requires the kind of critical thinking, interdisciplinary perspective, and understanding of the human condition developed through a liberal arts education.
To meet this demand and strengthen our national leadership in undergraduate science education and research, Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ is launching an ambitious science initiative with bold investment in our students, faculty, and shared future.
The vision for this project explores both renovation and new construction to create a dynamic science neighborhood in the northeast part of campus, with state-of-the-art teaching labs designed for experiential, Block-Plan-style learning and collaborative research facilities for faculty and students.
Strength in the Sciences—It Starts Here
At Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ, our students learn how to solve not only scientific problems, but human problems.
- 40% of Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ students major in science or interdisciplinary science fields
- Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ is 1 of only 36 liberal arts schools with the Carnegie Research Colleges and Universities designation—a new designation that recognizes schools that are not R1- or R2-level research institutions, yet are extraordinarily research active.
- Nearly 50% of graduates pursue advanced degrees, with:
- 27% in the sciences
- 22% in medical/health professions
The Urgency
Investing in this transformative initiative enables us to:
- Shape a collaborative hub, leveraging the power of the liberal arts for scientific inquiry
- Fuel groundbreaking research and innovation
- Empower students to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world
We must continue to evolve to prepare students not just to keep up, but to lead with purpose. Our students are ready.
These new spaces will:
- Expand capacity for high-demand courses
- Support immersive, hands-on learning on the Block Plan
- Advance student and faculty research
- Modernize lab spaces and equipment to meet new standards for teaching and research
- Center on collaboration and interdisciplinary learning
- Hold sustainability at the core
- Inspire the next generation of scientists, innovators, and problem solvers
It’s a bold new era for science at Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ—one where curiosity thrives, collaboration sparks discovery, and the next generation of problem solvers are born.
Where We're Headed
The project is envisioned as a multi-component project that involves renovation of existing science facilities and new construction.
Projected Milestones
| Title | Action | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Programming Study | Final master plan published | February 2024 |
| RFP + Architect Selection | Winter 2025 | |
| Departmental Planning + Design | May-November 2025 | |
| Dedicated Fundraising | Winter 2025 and ongoing | |
| Groundbreaking | tbd |