Roanoke College is getting ready to host a groundbreaking ceremony for its new Science Center on Saturday. The idea to build the center has been in the works since 2011, and the initial phase of the project will involve replacing Massengill Auditorium on Market Street with a new building. The estimated cost of constructing the new building is $30 million, which is half of the total $60 million budget allocated for the project, including upgrades to nearby buildings.

Upon completion, the new center will accommodate roughly one-third of Roanoke College’s classes, as per a statement from the institution. The ceremony, which is both a groundbreaking event and a farewell to Massengill Auditorium, is set to begin at 4 p.m. The funding for the project primarily comes from contributions made by alumni, faculty, and staff. Former college president David and Susan Gring made one of the largest donations, totaling $3.5 million.

Once finalized, the center will serve as the location for all STEM courses at Roanoke College, meaning that every student, regardless of their major, will attend at least one class there during their academic journey. The construction of the new center is anticipated to conclude in the fall of 2026.