LEXINGTON, Ky.-Transylvania University dedicated the renovated and refurbished laboratories of Brown Science Center today. During the ceremony, President R. Owen Williams emphasized the importance of the project for the university’s science faculty and students.
“This major project enhances teaching and learning in our already very distinguished science programs,” Williams said. “Our labs are now the kind of physical spaces that encourage the high degree of collaboration among professors and students that is characteristic of modern scientific investigation.”
William T. Young Jr., chairman of the Board of Trustees, was on hand to welcome everyone to the dedication and express gratitude to the donors who made the project possible.
“It took a broad and supportive group of very generous donors to fund what is truly one of the most meaningful projects in the university’s recent history,” Young said. “Each and every one who supported this initiative has our deep appreciation.”
Highlights of the multi-phase renovation include new fume hoods and other scientific equipment, along with moveable furnishings that make lab spaces more flexible. The addition of windows, brighter lighting, and lighter colors for walls and floors combine to make exceptionally appealing spaces for the study of science.
The $9.2 million project is one of three main components of Transylvania’s 225th Anniversary Campaign, which concluded in June with a total of $47.3 million raised against a goal of $42 million. Thus far, nine of 11 labs have been completed.
The work began in 2005 with the installation of a new heating, ventilating, and air conditioning system that recycles both hot and cold air. New air-tight windows throughout the 1970 building make the center more energy efficient. Both of those initiatives underscore Transylvania’s commitment to sustainability.
The renovated labs are significant for all Transy students, not just science majors and minors, since every student is required to complete a laboratory science course to be eligible to graduate.