As a child, John Ritter loved geology. He enjoyed fossil collecting excursions as a young boy, and he found the adventure of every trip inspiring. Today, the associate professor of geology brings that contagious enthusiasm to each of his classes as he discusses the complexities of the Earth, the types of problems geologists examine and the tools they use to uncover the answers.

Such excitement for subjects pervades the halls and classes in the state-of-the-art Kuss Science Center, where professors regularly share their passion for learning with students as they lead them in new directions of discovery. The facility’s advanced technology and relaxing atmosphere further their enthusiasm.

“Now we can teach using 21st-century technology,” said Brian Shelburne, professor of computer science. “There is just so much more you can do if you have the technology.” Kristin Cline, associate professor of chemistry, agreed.

“With this technology, I will be able to show students more experimental data to illustrate scientific principles. We’ll be able to look at spreadsheets together to observe trends in data or to observe the effect of changing a variable in an equation.”

“It will be easier for us to include active-learning exercises in our phyiscs and astronomy classes,” added Dan Fleisch, assistant professor of physics.

The addition of “audio-visual equipment in the GIS lab will make geology come alive for students,” Ritter noted. “The field experience is everything to a geologist, and these new AV capabilities are critical for sharing that experience with students.”

“It’s just so beautiful and peaceful here in this new building,” added Dave Mason, professor of biology, and “it will really help with the teaching of science.”