Wittenberg University Science Center Atrium Named in Honor of Congressman Dave Hobson
September 19, 2003
SPRINGFIELD, Ohio - "Empowering New Generations," the theme of today's dedication ceremonies of the Barbara Deer Kuss Science Center at Wittenberg University, will feature the names and stories of many well known activists in Clark County. Congressman David L. Hobson (R-Springfield) will be honored for his vision and leadership in securing federal funds, which helped to complete the center, and for his commitment to science education and the Springfield community. During the ceremony, the three-story glass focal point of the 47,000-square-foot expansion of the science center will be officially named the David L. Hobson Atrium.
Thanks to Hobson's direction, $3.8 million was allocated for electrical and mechanical infrastructure for Wittenberg's new science center from the Fiscal Year 2003 Omnibus Appropriations bill approved earlier this year by the House of Representatives. Kuss Science Center will serve as a community resource for local elementary and secondary school teachers and classes.
Hobson is a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee that developed the bill. He is also the chairman of the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee.
"As the Member of Congress who represents Springfield and Wittenberg University in the U.S. House of Representatives, I offer my congratulations on the completion of this important new educational facility," Hobson said. "I am proud to have been able to help secure some of the funding to ensure that Wittenberg students and faculty have a safe environment to perform their research.
"The facility is also a worthy tribute to my longtime friends, Barbara and Richard Kuss, who were instrumental in moving this project forward," Hobson added. "The Barbara Deer Kuss Science Center will be a new focal point of learning for students at Wittenberg University and will greatly assist their quest for scientific knowledge, making it a lasting tribute to the many ways that Barbara helped to make Springfield a better community."
The Hobson Atrium provides numerous areas for student and faculty interaction. It also features study nooks on the grand staircase, student study tables, plush armchairs for relaxation between studies and a Starbucks coffee station. The design of the Hobson Atrium by Chicago architects Holabird & Root has allowed for the joining of the existing building with the new building, creating a feeling of community and openness among the many disciplines housed in the center.
The Kuss Science Center houses the university's departments of biology, chemistry, physics, geology, mathematics and computer science. The building also houses programs in biochemistry, molecular biology, marine biology, health professions and environmental studies.
Tim Lewis, chair of Wittenberg's department of biology, said the new teaching concept in science is much like creating studio space for artists.
"The building is constructed to be user-friendly for doing science, which means that it promotes collaboration between the different areas of science and is a comfortable place to learn in a hands-on environment," Lewis said.
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