New Science Wing opens at WSC | Video

Chris Williams | 9/6/2012

Thursday was an exciting day at Williston State College. The new science wing officially opened. The wing is filled with state of the art equipment, including four labs, where students can get hands on experience.

"Getting students through math and science is more critical than it`s ever been before. Having this great science center really allows students to achieve something that was much more difficult in old science labs," said WSC President Dr. Raymond Nadolny.

It cost $3.5 million to build, with $2.9 million coming from the state legislature and the rest was raised by the college.

"That`s great partnership, and I think that`s the kind of model you`re going to see more of around the state of north Dakota. It shows a strong commitment of your community, of your alumni association, and the people of this great region," said Lt. Governor Drew Wrigley.

The technology will also provide students with new opportunities.

"Two of the four have Ivan. We can send or receive from other colleges in the state. Our lectures and our labs can be sent, and that really an advantage for us because we can collaborate with other colleges," said faculty member Lance Olson.

Olson says he is happy to finally see his dream come true.

"In 1992 we started talking about a north addition to the college, and here we are 20 short years later we`ve got it, what a deal."

Administrators hope this will not only help students learn, but keep them around too.

"Helping to retain students, this is just a really big step. It makes students feel more professional. What we want is a quality experience for our students, and a space they can get excited about. This space is pretty exciting," added Nadolny.

The new space is 10,000 square feet.

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