Renovations to the Copley Science Center began in summer 2013. One of the most exciting changes is the creation of a Psychological Sciences Complex in Smithey Hall.

“This enhanced space is a wonderful addition to Copley,” says Provost Bill Franz. “It now houses a new Developmental/Cognitive Human Subjects laboratory for students and professors to work side-by-side in research that is often reserved for top graduate students, as well as an improved Behavioral Neuroscience Animal laboratory. A separate microscopy lab has been added to allow student scientists to work in dark conditions to examine fluorescent stains. We’ve also created a unique and sophisticated behavioral analysis space where students can observe recorded animal behavior on large monitors and conduct micro-sequencing analysis and other techniques.”

In addition, Copley’s major lecture rooms, 100 and 101 received a facelift. By design, Randolph-Macon’s classrooms are small and limited to a capacity of 35 students. Copley 100 and Copley 101 are the exceptions. These two classrooms were renovated to increase slightly the seating capacity, giving us space to grow, but more importantly, they were redesigned to provide for improved usage. New and upgraded technology, sound, and seating configurations have been integrated into the rooms to be more ideally suited to learning and engagement.

The lobby of the Copley Science Building was also renovated in conjunction with Copley 100 and 101. This is the area where our prospective students form their important first impressions of our science program. It is essential that this space be aesthetically pleasing and serve as an accurate reflection of the interesting and exciting education taking place inside the building. A highlight of the lobby is the colorful aluminum sculpture, created by Mathematics Professor Eve Torrence, now suspended from the ceiling. The sculpture is based on an origami design. A year in the making, the yellow and orange sculpture “serves as a reminder that mathematics is beautiful,” says Torrence.

Fundraising continues for a much-needed new science building, which will be attached to the northwest corner of Copley Science Center. The anticipated cost of the 27,000-square-foot building is $13 million. It will include teaching laboratories, classrooms, faculty offices, and the Office of Pre-Health Advising.

“The sciences at Randolph-Macon touch every student,” says Provost Franz, “not just those who major in the sciences. It’s imperative that our science facilities reflect and support the high caliber of faculty and outstanding curriculum at Randolph-Macon.”

The Copley Science Center project was made possible through a $5 million challenge gift from Joan and Macon Brock Jr. ’64. The Copley Science Center is named for R-MC alumnus and benefactor W. Henry Copley ’34.