Expanding its emphasis on science programs, Wofford College, Spartanburg, S.C., opened The Roger Milliken Science Center last February.
The center is designed to bring together the sciences, humanities and the arts. Educating students for careers in teaching and scientific research, the science departments prepare students for further study leading into the healthcare professions — medicine, dentistry, nursing, social work, pharmacy, healthcare administration, public health and veterinary medicine.
Designed with numerous spaces that encourage and facilitate interaction, the center has more than 100,000 square feet of new and renovated facilities that house the departments of biology, chemistry, physics and psychology.
The Great Oaks Hall student study accommodates 200 students, provides Internet, voice and video connectivity throughout, and has technology for wireless connectivity. Eight study rooms accommodate small study groups. Copper acorn-styled chandeliers give dramatic interest to the hall.
The Acorn Cafe features a red undulating ceiling and seating for 60 people. Specialty coffees, pastries and other items are available. A vending area is adjacent to the cafe.
Laboratories are equipped with energy-efficient exhaust hoods with sensors to determine the amount of materials to be exhausted from the room. Indirect lighting in labs provides for more even, natural light and no shadows. Labs are accessible after-hours through keycards, which public-safety staff can code as needed for accessibility.
Architect for the project is McMillan Smith & Partners Associates (Spartanburg, S.C.).
