Emmanuel Dedicates Wilkens Science Center
October 02, 2009
Emmanuel welcomed friends of the College to campus on September 24th for the dedication of the Maureen Murphy Wilkens Science Center. Boston Mayor Thomas Menino, City Council President Michael Ross, members of the board of Trustees, alumni, faculty, staff and students were on hand for the special occasion, held in the Connors Atrium of the Wilkens Science Center.
During the ceremony, President Sister Janet Eisner, SND expressed her appreciation to Maureen Murphy Wilkens and her husband Frank Wilkens, present with their children Frank, Stephen, Daniel, his wife Sandra, and David, for their generous contributions to Emmanuel. She noted that the Wilkens' $5 million gift is unmatched in the history of the College, while the Wilkens Science Center is the first building in Emmanuel's 90-year history to be named for an alumna.
"Today we dedicate this spectacular building in your honor, and in tribute to your friendship, your partnership, and your confidence in our educational mission," said Sr. Janet to the Wilkens. "You share our passion for educating students in the 21st century, and as we spoke about this new academic science center, you saw its potential - not simply in terms of bricks and mortar, but in the ways it could impact our students' lives.
"Through this building, you are enabling intellectual growth and exploration to benefit students for a lifetime, and for that you have our deepest gratitude and affection."
Sr. Janet also thanked the donors who helped make the vision of the Wilkens Science Center possible, including Jack and Eileen Connors and family, Mike and Janet Daley and family, Elaine and Mark Quinn and family, and the Alden Trust.
Vice President of Academic Affairs Frank Scully shared his own gratitude for the new Wilkens Science Center, remarking on the difference such facilities have already had on Emmanuel. This fall, the College experienced a 42 % growth in the number of first-year students taking biology and chemistry courses. He expressed confidence that the building will not only aid Emmanuel in attracting, retaining and graduating strong sciences students, but leave an impression on all students regardless of their areas of study.
"Science will shape the future of American and the world," he said. "At Emmanuel College, the Maureen Murphy Wilkens Science Center is an integral step in preparing our students for a career in science or for a lifelong interest in science, no matter what other paths they choose."
After the ceremony, guests were invited to take self-guided tours of the new building, with science faculty and students stationed throughout the floors to answer any questions. A reception followed on the second floor of the Jean Yawkey Center.
To learn more about the Wilkens Science Center click here>>
