Roanoke College is preparing to host a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Science Center this Saturday. The idea to construct the center has been in the works since 2011, and the initial phase of the project will involve building a new facility to replace Massengill Auditorium on Market Street. The total cost of the construction for the new building is $30 million, which is half of the overall $60 million budget that will also cover renovations to adjacent buildings. Upon completion, the new facility will house about one-third of Roanoke College’s courses.
The groundbreaking ceremony will be a combined celebration of this new endeavor and a farewell to Massengill Auditorium. The event is scheduled to take place at 4 p.m. The project has been largely funded by donations from alumni, faculty, and staff. Former college president David and Susan Gring were among the largest donors, contributing a total of $3.5 million towards the project.
Once finished, the Science Center will be the hub for all STEM classes at Roanoke College. Every student, regardless of their major, will have to take at least one class at the center during their time pursuing a degree. Construction of the new facility is expected to be completed by fall 2026.