Support the New CGS Science Center

The percentage of CGS students who enter STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields has more than doubled over the past decade, thanks to faculty who engage students in hands-on work at BU. Students have participated in the Personal Genome Project, used social media in natural science classes, and assisted faculty with research in areas like beaver populations, quantum physics, and antibiotics in our water.

The College’s outdated physical space does not enhance this pioneering thinking and learning, however; the four science laboratories have not been refurbished since they were constructed nearly 50 years ago. Dean Natalie McKnight is working to change that, championing efforts for a new science center at CGS.

The proposed center has three teaching labs with state-of-the-art equipment, one of which will feature a greenhouse window. A fourth lab will support CGS students and faculty in research projects. During Alumni Weekend 2015, McKnight revealed that Phase II of the project—finalizing the design and development of blueprints—is complete. (Phase I was developing the renderings.) Once fundraising goals have been met, CGS will be ready for Phase III, breaking ground.

The new center will transform the quality of the CGS educational experience, as all students are required to take two semesters of natural science. “Today, we have more students using our laboratory facilities than ever before; I can’t overstate the power of ‘place’ in determining how positive and effective their learning experiences are,” says Professor Peter Busher. “The new science center will profoundly enhance our ability to deliver science.”

To support the new science center, make a gift to BU, designating the College of General Studies as the recipient.