Benedictine College is planning to raise $25-million as part of a capital project to renovate and upgrade its current science facilities.

In 1916, the college in Atchison, Kan. offered its first science degrees. Today, the college is looking to the next century of science with a planned new Science and Engineering building.

Benedictine College President Stephen D. Minnis sees advancement in STEM disciplines as essential to the college’s faith-based mission.

“At Benedictine College, we believe faith, morality and ethics are just as important in the sciences as in every other part of our lives. They cannot be separated,” he said. “That is why it is so important to train future doctors, engineers and scientists at a place like Benedictine College that understands the essential role of faith, morality and ethics in the sciences.”

The $25 million Benedictine science and engineering building project will be the college’s largest capital project ever. The college worked with one of the nation’s leading science and technology architects to design the best science facilities possible for the needs of the college’s engineering, biology, chemistry, physics and astronomy departments.

Physics professor Dr. Doug Brothers has taught at Benedictine College since 1968. He is a past winner of the Educator of Year Award, has received numerous National Science Foundation grants, served as department chair and even served as Interim Dean of the College for 18 months. He said the future of Benedictine College science will be shaped by the new science and engineering building.

“Our greatest needs revolve around having modern laboratory space and facilities and maintaining and upgrading our laboratory equipment to provide essential experiences for our students to pursue their research interests, to remain active in their fields, and to mentor new generations of scientists,” said Dr. Brothers.

The college is currently working to raise funds for the upgrades. CLICK HERE for more information.