Randolph to celebrate completion of Martin Science Building renovation

Randolph College is holding a special event to celebrate the completion of the Martin Science Building renovation next month—a project years in the making and one of the College’s largest investments. 

A ribbon cutting and reception will be held at 4 p.m. on Thursday, October 2. The mayor and city manager, as well as other business leaders from Lynchburg, will be on hand for the event. 

“This project has been fueled by remarkable generosity and vision,” President Sue Ott Rowlands said. “We are deeply grateful for the support of our alumni, friends, and partners. Martin Science Building stands as a symbol of what our community can achieve together.”

To date, the College has secured approximately $18 million toward the revised campaign goal, with an additional $4.6 million expected through historic tax credits. That leaves just over $400,000 remaining in the campaign.

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 what is now a modern, technologically advanced learning space. 

While primarily remaining true to its original architecture, the building received a dramatic transformation that allows it to serve as the hub for Randolph’s programs in biology, chemistry, physics, math and computer science, marine science, physics and engineering, and environmental studies and sciences.

Martin Science is now equipped with modern, state-of-the-art labs, more flexible and collaborative learning spaces, new faculty offices, and a permanent home for the College’s Natural History and Archaeology Collections.

Updates include improved climate control, lighting, and accessibility, making the building more comfortable and welcoming. 

Phase One of the construction began in January 2024, and the new spaces were opened to students as they were completed. 

“With its new resources, the Martin Science Building is more than a renovation. It is a catalyst for innovation,” Ott Rowlands said. “It is designed to inspire curiosity, discovery, and collaboration, while highlighting our deep commitment to the sciences and to preparing students for the challenges of the future.” 

More information about the project can be found at sciencematters.randolphcollege.edu.