January 25, 2024

Phase One of the Martin Science Building renovation begins

Phase One of Randolph College’s renovation of Martin Science Building began shortly before the beginning of this semester.

This phase, which extends through August 2024, includes the installation of new HVAC and elevator systems, the creation of an accessible entrance to Martin on Norfolk Avenue and improved access to the greenhouse and botanic garden areas, and the renovation of laboratory spaces for introductory biology, physics, and organic biochemistry in time for the start of the fall 2024 semester.

Randolph recently completed a $250,000 matching challenge grant from the Mary Morton Parsons Foundation and has announced a new challenge from an anonymous alumna from the 1970s. That $200,000 matching challenge must be met by June 30, 2024.

Additionally, Liz Grimm ’71, an emerita member of the Board of Trustees, has made a generous commitment to the project to name the organic and biochemistry lab.

Built in the late 1930s and named in memory of Fernando Wood Martin, the first scientist on the College’s faculty, the 38,000-square-foot Martin Science Building provides a historic setting for Randolph students and faculty.

These upgrades will be an invaluable resource for students in the College’s biology, chemistry, physics and engineering, math and computer science, marine science, and environmental studies and sciences programs, as well as the Natural History and Archaeology Collections Project.

While primarily remaining true to its original architecture, the building will undergo an interior transformation, becoming a welcoming space that inspires communication, curiosity, discovery, and innovation.

Renovations will bring the building up to current standards, resulting in a place that is more comfortable and fully accessible, with better climate control, lighting, and campus integration.
With the addition of the modern technological and scientific resources expected by today’s faculty and students, the new facility will highlight Randolph’s passion for the sciences.