(This series was intended to highlight the new construction, renovation and upgrades to the state universities in South Dakota. Content was submitted by the architects of the projects or by the universities.)
(Content and images submitted by Northern State University)
The newest academic building on the Northern State University campus has already made an enormous impact.
The state-of-the-art Harvey C. Jewett IV Regional Science Education Center has attracted more science students, provided space for cutting-edge equipment, and allowed Northern to expand its regional outreach.
The Science Center, which opened in fall 2019, is home to Northern’s biology and chemistry programs – both of which saw an increase in students immediately, with freshman biology and chemistry majors up 54 percent from last fall.
Those students have access to advanced science facilities and equipment – including a nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer – rivaling what’s found in any well-equipped forensics and imaging labs. The facility also boasts a classroom fitted to contain a GIS lab, cadaver lab, greenhouse and outdoor classroom – all features that make it a perfect place for students to conduct cutting-edge undergraduate research.
Community outreach is enhanced, with the facility’s labs featuring glass walls so that K-12 student tours are able to witness science in action. Northern also intends to soon offer its first ever middle school science camps as well as workshops for high school science teachers.
With new academic programs on the horizon, the Regional Science Education Center is equipped to lead science education into the future.
This project was designed by TSP from Sioux Falls and SmithGroup from Phoenix.
Allison Dvorak, AIA, CPHC, is a member of the AIA South Dakota Board of Directors, liaison to the Emerging Professionals and Communication committees, and an architect in Sioux Falls. She received her M.Arch from North Dakota State University and continues to develop her Master’s thesis of researching and implementing design theories focused on human centered design through speaking engagements, design practice, and one-on-one client education. Allison lives in Sioux Falls with her husband, son and daughter.