The Wedgewood Academic Center also houses 30 classrooms that vary from 24 –72 seats in capacity, allowing flexibility of use, while smaller group study rooms enable focused discussions among students and faculty. In addition, the building supports 20 science labs outfitted with more than $2 million in equipment. A student-centered service area on the first floor allows for personal assistance via a Writing Center, Math Lab, Computer Science Lab, Language Learning Lab and a centrally located Service Learning and International Education office. Also on the first floor, the campus community can enjoy a dining option featuring Sandella’s Flatbread sandwiches and a We Proudly Brew Starbucks outlet. Belmont Provost Dr. Thomas Burns added, “Starting in August 2011 with an invitation from our president to ‘dream big’ about what we most needed and wanted in a new academic building, the development of the Wedgewood Academic Center has been a collaborative endeavor involving substantial input from students, faculty and staff. The result of these conversations has led to a truly outstanding academic space which embodies our University’s student-centered commitments while reflecting the insight and creativity of the Belmont community.” As part of Belmont’s ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, the University is seeking LEED Certification for the Wedgewood Academic Center. The new facility is incorporating a number of green features including multiple green roofs, LED lighting and motion-sensors, a variable flow refrigerant HVAC system and a chilled beam mechanical system in conjunction with a VAV system. n
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