Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minn., has broken ground on a $19 million Science and Learning Center.

The university says the facility will have a layout specially designed to promote hands-on learning opportunities. The building also will have an interior atrium that will visually connect all three floors and welcome sunlight from the building’s skylights. A 120-seat tiered auditorium will accommodate special events, guest speakers, and student presentations.

“We’re building an environment for students who aspire to careers of consequence in science," says Brother William Mann. president of Saint Mary's. "Our rigorous training prepares students to succeed in highly competitive graduate and professional programs in medicine, research, and environmental sciences, and science education. This new Science and Learning Center will give our students an even greater career advantage.”

Donors contributed $13 million to help pay for the project.

The building is scheduled to be completed in 2017.

The architect is Wight & Company.