DEARBORN — A $15 million project is transforming Henry Ford
Community College’s current Science Building with massive renovations. The
building was originally constructed in 1963, and has been well maintained over
the years, but now requires restructuring to provide safer, modern and a more
comfortable learning environment for students. The project will be complete
April 2012.

HFCC President Dr. Gail Mee

The $15 million was funded by the state and HFCC. The College’’s
Board of Trustees granted approval to move forward with the project. Nearly
$615,000 was raised from grants and charitable gifts.

The new 19,000 foot expansion creates four new laboratories
and two new classrooms for life sciences. Its design uses green principles to
earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The facility will prepare
students for the science of the 21st century. The Center models and teaches
sustainability with a green roof and a ground level rain garden.

HFCC President Dr. Gail Mee said the impact of the facility
would extend into classrooms and beyond, as the College works to enhance the
local, regional and state economy. “We have a tremendous wealth of
technical talent in southeast Michigan, as well as many corporations seeking
technical talent trained in the Sciences for a number of positions,” Mee
said.

“The center of excellence will further the
sustainability goals of the College with a Science Center that models, teaches
and promotes sustainability. And it will ensure that HFCC is at the forefront
of preparing these students for the many new, cutting-edge careers awaiting
them in southeast Michigan and indeed throughout out state.”

Remarks were given by State Senator Morris Hood, Wayne
County Executive Robert Ficano, Dearborn Public School’s Board of Education
member James Schoolmaster, Wayne County Commissioner Irma Clark Coleman,
Dearborn Mayor Jack O’Reilly, State Rep. George Darany, Associate Dean of
Science Dr. Charles Jacobs and HFCC student Melissa Geno. 

The Center is designed by SHW Architects.  Mee said four years ago the college
approached the state about the need for a new science facility.  “We are so pleased for our
representatives in Lansing to be so supportive of the college,” Mee said
at the ceremony. 

The new 19,000 foot expansion creates four new laboratories and two new classrooms for life sciences. PHOTO: Natasha Dado/TAAN

“It is about our kids, and that is what was the driver
that drove us to get behind this issue and push it forward…There are other
folks around the state that have projects they want in their community houses,
their universities and we were able to stand strong. When I speak about Henry
Ford Community College everyone has respect for this community college…We’re
going to continue making this community college one of the best community
colleges, not only in the state, but in this county and in the world,”
Hood said.

“We’re not celebrating a building. We’re celebrating an
opportunity. We’re celebrating the future,” O’Reilly said. He says people
turned to community colleges after losing their jobs, hoping to earn training
to launch careers in different fields.

“What is the most important training we can give people
so they can be a part of the new future? Science was at the top. Real science.
Science is practical and usable, so what we celebrate today is that need has
now been clarified, defined and designed and is ready to go into action. And
that’s what’s critical. This is science on display. When you approach the
building you’re going to see science in action. You’re going to see the newest
technology. The newest environmental techniques. And that’s what’s going to
make this special,” O’Reilly added