The Maureen Murphy Wilkens Science Center was designed by the Boston-based firm Goody Clancy and constructed by Walsh Brothers with funds provided by Maureen Murphy Wilkens ’56 and Frank Wilkens. It opened in 2009 as the College’s third science building and reflected the College’s goal to build distinctive academic programs in the liberal arts and sciences. Leveraging its unique location and partnership with the Medical and Academic Area (LMA) and Merck Laboratories to provide internships, scholarships, seminar series, and cutting-edge research equipment.

 

Featuring fourteen laboratories for biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, neuroscience, and faculty research, as well as multipurpose classrooms, meeting spaces, and common areas, the four-floor Wilkens Science Center fosters the type of interactive learning and community building that is the hallmark of the Emmanuel College educational experience.

 

It was a “green” building and spoke to the idea of sustainability. The new building was energy-efficient, and its underground car park created more green space on campus. The glass façade offered a spectacular view of this enhanced green space and open atriums provided views of the Emerald Necklace and the Boston skyline that were unmatched.

 

The Wilkens Science Center also supported teaching and learning at the K-12 level through the Center for Science Education. This initiative will provide opportunities for professional development for teachers and student programming with the goal of enhancing science education in urban schools.

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