The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation has awarded a $250,000 grant to Whittier College for the Science and Learning Center (SLC), the largest capital project in the College’s 130-year history. This marks the second significant award made by The Parsons Foundation toward this project, following a $500,000 grant given in 2014. The renewed SLC opened in fall 2016 and houses seven departments – biology, chemistry, environmental science, kinesiology and nutrition science, math, physics, and psychological sciences. It features flexible classrooms, large open lounge areas, group study spaces, and indoor/outdoor classrooms on the rooftop.
The new SLC was envisioned as a catalyst for continuing the College’s momentum in expanding upon a first-rate science program and advancing curricular innovations across all disciplines to benefit its talented and diverse student population. As anticipated, the building is already having a profound impact on instruction. For the 2016-17 school year, more than 90 percent of students have taken courses in the SLC and 100 percent will have a class in the new facility before they graduate.
The revamp of the building has had overall positive effect on campus with much feedback on the improved design and functionality of the space.
“It has been phenomenal to have the SLC open and even more exciting to see how well it is serving, and will continue to serve, our students and the overall community,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty Darrin Good.
