Valparaiso University Breaks Ground on Science Facility Sept. 17

Sept. 17 – Valparaiso, Ind. – Valparaiso University advances its long history of commitment to STEM education and expands facilities with a new wet laboratory building. The groundbreaking ceremony is Thursday, Sept. 17, at 10 a.m.

“This new facility will provide essential laboratory spaces that are as vibrant and robust as our dedicated students and faculty,” said Mark L. Biermann, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “These vital resources will significantly enhance our already strong paradigm for conducting scientific research on campus and increase opportunities within our strong, interdisciplinary science programs.

During the past few years, Valpo engaged faculty members, architects and a professional laboratory consultant to identify priorities and develop an efficient plan of action to meet long-term student needs. The state-of-the-art laboratories will utilize a flexible design to encourage strong, interdisciplinary collaboration and research.

The 55,000-square-foot science facility is slated to open in fall 2017 and will contain primarily wet laboratories for chemistry, biochemistry and biology students, along with informal students spaces and staff and faculty offices. Neils Science Center, constructed in 1967, will be renovated and continue to provide classroom and teaching spaces.