Montgomery County Community College today announced the re-opening of the Science Center on its Blue Bell Campus.

Renovated and modernized over a period of four years, the 118,689-square-foot building houses MCCC’s science, engineering and mathematics programs, as well as a state-of-the-art, 563-seat theater.

The theater is the centerpiece of the recently launched Montco Cultural Center, which encompasses all MCCC’s arts and culture programming. The MCCC community gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony officially re-opening the Science Center on Thursday, September 14, at 10 AM.

“I am immensely proud and energized to celebrate the official reopening our Science Center and invite students, faculty, staff and community members to experience all that it offers,” said Dr. Victoria L. Bastecki-Perez, MCCC President.

About the Science Center

First opened in 1972, the Science Center has been completely reinvented to provide students hands-on access to the latest science and engineering technology, including robotic arms and 3D printers. Office suites have also been retrofitted into student hubs, where classmates can engage with and learn from one another.

 MCCC’s Sustainability Lab provides experiential learning opportunities for students in practices such as hydroponics and aquaponics. Students also grow plants, protists and other aquatic life in the Sustainability Lab to support STEM biology lab work.

The renovation supports the growth and development of these programs to provide students with the knowledge and skills required for high-priority occupations in STEM fields that offer family-sustaining wages.

About the Theater at Montco Cultural Center

The anchor of the Science Center is the Theater at Montco Cultural Center, a 563-seat, technologically advanced performing arts space. The space will operate as a multi-purpose venue, capable of hosting live theatrical performances, concerts, lectures and film screenings.

The redesigned theater has increased its seating capacity from 398 to 563.The venue also features new and improved seating for audience members, a new lobby and bathrooms, and increased wheelchair accessibility.

In addition to serving as a performance destination for the Philadelphia region, the theater will provide real-world learning experiences for students. The theater’s inaugural performance – a presentation by the Lao Tizer Band – will take place on Wednesday, September 20, to kick off Montco Jazz Fest.

Read more about the state-of-the-art facilities and how they foster experiential learning on Montgomery County Community College’s website.

Science Center’s Grand Re-opening.