NEW WILMINGTON, Pa – Westminster College will dedicate its expanded Hoyt Science Center Friday afternoon.

Construction was completed this spring on the three-story 27-000-square-foot wing that opened its doors to students this fall and houses the college’s chemistry, biochemistry and environmental science programs. 
 
“This impressive new space gives us a competitive edge and will increase our capacity to develop highly accomplished scientific professionals,” says Dr. Peter Smith, professor of chemistry and chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry.
 
The $11.2 million expansion concludes phase three of the Hoyt renovation and expansion project. Phases one and two included the construction of Westminster’s nursing and neuroscience facilities and the Dietz Sullivan Lecture Hall. Other structural and aesthetic renovations and upgrades were made to the existing Hoyt structure, which was constructed in 1974 with an addition built in the 1980s. 
 
Phase four will address spaces needed for the Center for the Environment and future expanded academic programming, as well as unrenovated areas from the project’s first two stages.
 
Designed by Cincinnati-based BHDP Architecture and built by Thomas Construction Inc. of Grove City, Pa., the Hoyt Science Center is now home to new teaching and research laboratories, offices and ample spaces for students and faculty to interact and collaborate.
 
“With one-third of Westminster’s students majoring in STEM-related fields, the new expansion – combined with the previously renovated section of Hoyt – increases Westminster’s capacity to teach, collaborate and prepare students for the opportunities they will find in graduate school and industry,” said Westminster College President Dr. Kathy Brittain Richardson.
 
Friday’s dedication will feature a number of speakers including Richardson; Dr. Jean Hale, vice president for institutional advancement; Kenneth Romig, vice president for finance and management services; Dr. Jamie McMinn, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college; Jeffrey McCandless, chair of the Westminster College Board of Trustees; and Seth Schrader, a senior chemistry major from Fredonia, N.Y. The Rev. James Mohr, campus chaplain, will offer a prayer of dedication.
 
Attendees may tour the new space following the ceremony. Student guides will be stationed throughout the building to answer questions or offer directions.