The groundbreaking for the Science Center occurred in May 2015 and today, a long-awaited unveiling of the building took place on the first day of the spring term.
After a series of speeches by local and state officials, Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico made an appearance and commented on the sustainability of the project. Rep. Bill Foster echoed that sentiment, calling today a truly a special day for the entire North Central College community.
Foster noted that on May 6, the 125,000 square-foot center will host a Climate Change Forum featuring Chicago meteorologist Tom Skilling, leading Foster to joke that maybe the climate change event will have a bigger draw than Bernie Sanders’ campus appearance.
NCC President Troy Hammond, a scientist and entrepreneur, seemed in his element, saying “STEM disciplines are a cornerstone of every great liberal arts college.”
Hammond noted specifically that when he came to NCC, “our science center was simply not up to par.” He then applauded the project for wrapping up early and under budget.
He added, “We are now a college of destination” and also brought up the many naming opportunities that are available as part of the Brilliant Future campaign.
The Brilliant Future campaign is broken up into three sections: endowment, programs, and facilities, according to the campaign’s website. To date, 37 percent of the $150-million goal has been raised.
The Science Center itself costs approximately $60 million and will host, biology, chemistry, computer science, neuroscience, mathematics, physics, psychology, exercise science and pre-health disciplines.
The College congratulated the construction companies and donors for their contributions to the effort as well as the administrative officials involved.
