The benefits of the STEM@DRAKE complex extend far beyond a clean, shiny new space. The buildings provide a collaborative and green learning environment for faculty, staff, and students.

Multiple heads are better than one

The new STEM@DRAKE buildings (Collier-Scripps Hall and the Science Connector Building) are intended to increase both the sharing of equipment and ideas. The facilities will bring science, technology, education, and math programs together to form one STEM hub on campus—boosting cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Some areas, such as the School of Education, have been housed off campus for years. By physically bringing Drake’s STEM departments together, in the heart of campus, faculty from different disciplines will easily be able to interact, problem solve, and form research partnerships. The STEM@DRAKE complex is designed to encourage this type of collaboration with an open classroom and lab structure.

Students will also benefit from engaging with their peers with other majors and skill sets who may think differently than themselves but provide a unique perspective into solving the same problem.

By forming a more cohesive environment, the STEM@DRAKE complex will be a catalyst for transforming the way we educate tomorrow’s scientists, doctors, researchers, innovators, and teachers.

Blue is green

The new spaces will receive Green Globe certification, demonstrating the University’s strong commitment to sustainable practices. This means the buildings were designed to meet high standards in energy efficiency and reduce environmental waste. The buildings are only the second project in Iowa to receive Green Globe certification.

Moving into new quarters

Faculty and staff are in the midst of moving into the new buildings; the School of Education will move into Collier-Scripps Hall this week. After the academic year has begun and once move-in is complete, faculty and staff from across campus are welcome to stop into Collier-Scripps Hall or the Science Connector Building to view the new facilities.

Tune in to the next issue of OnCampus for more features of the STEM@DRAKE facilities