Saint Vincent College Dedicates $5.8 Million James F. Will Engineering And Biomedical Sciences Hall

LATROBE, Pa., Nov. 16, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- An exciting new chapter in the history of science education at Saint Vincent College began today with the formal opening and dedication of the $5.8 million James F. Will Engineering and Biomedical Sciences Hall.

The two-story, 11,260-square foot structure is located on the northwest side of the Sis and Herman Dupré Science Pavilion and will provide state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories for human anatomy teaching in the biomedical sciences and dedicated space for the college's growing engineering program.

Speakers at the dedication ceremony included Br. Norman W. Hipps, O.S.B., president; James F. Will, president emeritus; Ralph H. Liberatore, owner of Three Rivers Orthopedic and Spine, Inc.; Dr. Stephen M. Jodis, dean of the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences, Mathematics and Computing; and Rt. Rev. Douglas R. Nowicki, O.S.B., archabbot.

Building on its historically strong academic programs in the natural sciences, Saint Vincent is targeting the academic fields of biomedical sciences and engineering for future growth and opportunity," Br. Norman explained. "The initiation of an engineering science degree program and the development of an integrated science major with an allied health concentration are enhancing our academic excellence while meeting the changing needs of students and of society."

The new building features two large laboratories, one on each floor – the Liberatore Human Anatomy Laboratory with six operating stations and an Engineering Design Laboratory.

Engineering facilities on the second floor include The Stephans Computer Modeling Laboratory, Kennametal Foundation Conference Room and Library, interdisciplinary classroom, three faculty offices, two restrooms and the "Yodel Lounge."

The human anatomy laboratory provides cutting-edge, high-tech facilities for anatomical research. The ultramodern laboratory is designed as a flexible space that can accommodate up to six surgical stations in a simulated operating room environment. The lab features advanced audio and video capabilities, including a teaching station equipped with cameras and monitors to enhance instruction.

In addition to providing education and research opportunities for the college's undergraduate programs, the human anatomy laboratory also will provide critical resources to fulfill the contemporary training needs of the health professions and medical device suppliers. Undergraduate students enrolled at Saint Vincent will have the opportunity to work as laboratory assistants in this new endeavor.

SOURCE Saint Vincent College