needs for educators in STEM. The addition houses several EMU departments: physics and astronomy, biology, chemistry, geography and psychology. The structure also features 36 science labs for house cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, chemical synthesis, polymer studies and surface and material studies. The new science complex meets LEED silver certification, with a new mechanical system reduces its energy consumption and costs, a green roof and a rain garden aligning the main pedestrian pathway to help filter and detain storm water runoff. Following the movement of faculty and classes into the new structure, renovations were initiated on the more than 40-year-old 180,000-square-foot Jefferson Building. Both projects were part of one of the university’s most active periods of construction in its history, as the Pray-Harrold classroom building renovation was in process at the same time. The project fell under the university’s $195 million four-year capital plan. The complex was self-funded through the sale of bonds and a 4 percent tuition increase approved in 2005 for capital projects. Classes in the new science complex began in January 2011. In addition to classes being held in the facility from Monday through Thursday, the planetarium is open for use by K-12 students and teachers on Fridays and public shows are hosted on weekends. In 2014, Martin with Board of Regents Chair Francine Parker announced the university would seek funding from the state for renovations to Strong Hall to complete the Science Complex and home to the university’s geology and geography department and physics and astronomy department. The project was delegated as the university’s top request for state cost participation for fiscal year 2016. Strong Hall was built in 1957 and as of 2014 had not received any significant updates. The cost of the project is expected to be approximately $47 million, with the state contributing 75 percent of funds and the university the other 25 percent. Funding for the project has been sought after from the state since 2010. Student Advising Center In 2013, a new advising center was opened in the student center to consolidate student services and inquiries, and new software was installed to help students self-manage credits for graduation. Named the Fancine Parker Advising Center, the university invested $1.5 million in adviser services and expanded its advisory staff from 12 to 18. Physician’s Assistant Facilities To house the university’s new physician’s assistant program, Martin invested $3.6 million in renovations to the university’s