University of Southeast Alaska Introduces New Advanced Science Building

The University of Southeast Alaska is about to take a significant step as it prepares to introduce its newest addition, “Áakʼw Tá Hít,” a state-of-the-art science building. Scheduled for introduction this fall, this cutting-edge facility promises to revolutionize regional research and education.

Overview of Áakʼw Tá Hít

Features of the University of Southeast Alaska’s New Building

1- Highlights of Áakʼw Tá Hít

• Student Lounge: Offering an awe-inspiring vista of Auke Bay and Admiralty Island.
• Modern Design: Featuring lofty ceilings, a wrap-around deck, and expansive glass windows welcoming natural light and panoramic perspectives.

2*- Centralizing Science Departments

The environmental science department was spread throughout the campus for a long time. But now, with this new building, everyone in the department can come together in one place.

• Faculty and Researchers: Both from diverse fields, such as ecology, glaciology, and geophysics, will collaborate and conduct research in the new building.
• Students: The new building of the University of Southeast Alaska is like a hub where students can learn together and work on projects as a team.

3- Latest Laboratories

The science building features state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with essential amenities for advanced research:

• Hydrology Lab: Strategically located adjacent to Professor Eran Hood’s office, providing convenient access for research and collaboration in hydrology studies.
• Glaciology and Drone Research Lab: The University of Southeast Alaska’s lab has everything needed for research, such as benches, fume hoods, and plenty of storage. These things are essential for studying glaciers and using drones in science. Having these resources means researchers can do more in-depth studies on how glaciers work and how drones can help in scientific exploration.
• Adaptable Spaces: Designed flexibly, these laboratories can easily accommodate evolving research needs as new faculty members join. Meanwhile, it ensures versatility and efficiency in scientific endeavors.

4- Engaging Learning Environment

The new facility is designed to enhance the learning environment with various features:

• Office Spaces: These spaces are dedicated to administrators, visiting faculty, and graduate students, providing them with functional work areas.
• Classrooms: The building includes classrooms equipped to accommodate different group sizes. Among them is a 40-person seminar room, ideal for larger gatherings, and a smaller, more intimate classroom for specialized sessions.
• Additional Facilities: The design incorporates extra storage areas to meet the needs of various departments. A dive locker is also available to support marine biology and oceanography students.

5- Project Timeline and Funding

The construction of Áakʼw Tá Hít has been a multi-year endeavor, with planning to commence in 2016. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project persevered, fueled by a $16.1 million investment from various university funds.

6- Strategic Location and Convenience

Áakʼw Tá Hít is located next to the Anderson Building, where the biology department is based. This proximity makes it easy for students and faculty from different departments to collaborate and share ideas.

7- A Hub for Natural World Exploration

Professor Eran Hood emphasizes the building’s immersive integration with its surroundings, stating, “It really kind of opens to the environment, which is just what we were hoping for when developing the space.” This forthcoming structure promises to be an exceptional venue for studying the natural world upon its anticipated autumn inauguration.

Final Verdict

With the grand opening of Áakʼw Tá Hít approaching, the University of Southeast Alaska is filled with excitement. Everyone is calling ahead to the limitless opportunities and exciting discoveries that look forward to in this brand-new construction.