Media Release

For Immediate Release

April 25, 2008

Saint Mary's University set to open Science Building and begin work on Atrium complex

Halifax, NS – On April 29, 2008, Saint Mary’s University will cut the ribbon to officially open its new $25.5 million Science Building and then immediately begin construction on a new $17.5 million Atrium complex. The event will take place from 3 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the entrance of the Patrick Power Library.

The new buildings strengthen Saint Mary’s position as an international leader in education and research, and are part of the university’s ongoing mission to be the University of Choice for Aspiring Citizens of the World.

The $25.5 million Science Building Renewal Project began in May 2005 and included the renovation and modernization of the university’s existing five-storey, 71,500 square foot science building as well as the construction of a five-story, 22,500 square foot addition to the north end of the building. The building houses the applied science faculty departments of Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Sciences and Geology along with related programs and services.

The new $17.5 million Atrium will be a 43,000 square foot, three-storey building located in the northwest corner of the campus between and will attach to the Science, Patrick Power Library and Burke Buildings. It will feature a main floor Global Learning Commons - a wireless, student-centred, barrier-free communal learning space that encourages interaction between faculty and staff, and will provide more opportunity for community engagement. Other unique features of the Atrium include an interior bio-wall and a green roof. The second and third floors will house teaching and study space, along with space for offices and computational sciences research. It’s scheduled to be complete by September 2009.

Both buildings are designed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.  

Photo opportunities will be set for the ribbon cutting as well as the ceremonial sod turning. A media tour of new labs and research facilities in the Science Building will be conducted by Dean of Science, Dr. Malcolm Butler. Media interested in taking the tour should be at the entrance of the Patrick Power Library by 2:30 p.m. A reception at the O’Donnell Hennessey Student Centre will follow the event.

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For more information:

Blake Patterson
Public Affairs Officer
Saint Mary's University, Public Affairs
(902) 420.5514
E-mail: blake.patterson@smu.ca
www.smu.ca