FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contacts: 
Andrew Keating, Director of Communications, 406.657.1104, media@rocky.edu

Bair Family Trust Awards RMC $35,000 for New Science Center

BILLINGS, May 11, 2017 – As construction continues on the new Rocky Mountain College Science Building, students will not only have a new facility in which to learn, but a place to connect between classes, thanks to a grant from the Charles M. Bair Family Trust.

The $35,000 grant will help fund the 1,527 square-foot student lounge/commons area to be located within RMC’s new, three-story science building slated for completion in January 2018. This new commons area will allow students the needed space to connect with their fellow students and faculty.

“It provides the resources to our faculty and students to match the ambitious curriculum to educate the whole student and protects the relationship between faculty and student,” said Rocky Mountain College President Bob Wilmouth.

Wilmouth emphasized that efforts to provide the new facilities to students are focused on the end goal: to produce well-rounded prepared graduates capable of thriving in today’s ever-changing world. Currently, RMC requires all students to complete a minimum of two science classes within its liberal arts curriculum.

“Students need a comprehensive liberal arts college, one that helps them think critically about today’s complex problems—problems that students will face the rest of their lives,” Wilmouth explained. “Every student will take a course in that building. They need their own space to interact both socially and academically.”

And, RMC’s efforts to provide a comprehensive liberal arts education would not be possible without the proper funding. With only two comparable lounge areas on campus to date—the Fraley Lounge in the Bair Family Student Center and a small area in Morledge-Kimball Hall—the new lounge will be a welcomed addition for the Rocky student.

“This space encourages students to spend more time on campus, increasing engagement and improving retention,” said Vice President of Institutional Advancement Kelly Edwards. “We are so grateful for our partnership with the Charles M. Bair Family Trust. Due to its generous support, we are able to continue making improvements and enhancements across campus creating a better environment for our students, faculty and staff,” Edwards said.

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