The Science Complex TRAINING FUTURE doctors, scientists, chemists, biologists, psychologists, mathematicians and computer technicians starts at Roanoke. The College has first-rate programs in these areas, but the three campus buildings that house the classrooms, laboratories and offices for faculty and staff in these departments are outdated. The College needs larger, modern space to adequately teach and prepare the next generation of student-professionals. Science Complex features include: • Linking three of the science and math buildings — Massengill Auditorium, the Life Sciences building and Trexler Hall — into a comprehensive complex • Providing appropriate infrastructure for modern research. That infrastructure includes lighting, ventilation, power handling, telecommunications and load-bearing capacity.
Roanoke Rising helps put in motion the first phase of a state-of-the-art science complex that will link the Life Sciences, Massengill Auditorium and Trexler Hall buildings into a modern complex. Here, small groups of complementary disciplines will work alongside one another, as they do in the real world. “I’ve toured the science building and was a little taken aback at the facilities,” says John Turbyfill ’53, trustee emeritus and former Board of Trustees chairman. “Over time, we’ve renovated a few labs, but in general, they’re out of date and inadequate.” Turbyfill sees Roanoke Rising as a way 12
to engage alumni in the College’s future. “Roanoke currently does not have a science facility [that] supports the level of excellence provided by its faculty,” says Dr. David Gring, president emeritus and a scientist himself. “I’m bullish that this has to be done.” Dr. Ben Huddle, professor emeritus of chemistry, agrees. “The new science complex means Roanoke will be at the forefront of science education in the United States. Roanoke is going places and we can’t do it without the support of a lot of people.” “It’s time to hook your wagon to this star and be a part of it.” RC
“It is gratifying that people know Roanoke. Its reputation in the sciences is really rising across the country.” TYLER BARNES CLASS OF 2014
Roanoke College Magazine