by Rae McKee, Public Relations Writer
Cedarville University chemistry and biology students can now conduct experiments and tests in a state-of-the-art Chemistry Laboratory Center. The $5 million expansion project was completed in time for the start of the 2015-16 academic year. The first labs of the year took place on Aug. 24.
The new facility, located along the southwest edge of campus, has seven new laboratories: three for freshman chemistry, and one each for advanced chemistry, organic chemistry, instrumentation and research. The spacious new labs provide a safe and enjoyable environment for the students. The new research lab gives students a place to learn important laboratory techniques and supports the faculty in their research efforts.While the students will reap the immediate benefit of the new building, Dennis Flentge, Ph.D., chair of the department of science and mathematics and senior professor of chemistry, expects the chemistry building will have a broader appeal on Cedarville’s 400-acre campus.
The chemistry laboratory center enhances the educational experience for the students as they prepare for medical or graduate school and chemistry related vocations. Flentge also believes it will help with student recruitment.
“This new facility will positively impact every aspect of programs in the sciences, engineering and mathematics,” said Flentge. “But I also believe it will turn heads when prospective students visit campus. This will be one of the finest laboratories for a university the size of Cedarville University. It’s first class.”
Located in southwest Ohio, Cedarville University is an accredited, Christ-centered, Baptist institution with an enrollment of 3,620 undergraduate, graduate and online students in more than 100 areas of study. Founded in 1887, Cedarville is recognized nationally for its authentic Christian community, rigorous academic programs, strong graduation and retention rates, accredited professional and health science offerings and leading student satisfaction ratings.