Delaware Valley University has received a $2,025,000 Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grant from the Pennsylvania Office of the Budget to support the construction of a new Poultry Science Center on its main campus in Doylestown.

“We are thrilled to receive this vital funding that accelerates our ability to build a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing poultry research, education, and innovation,” said DelVal President Dr. Benjamin Rusiloski. “This grant, along with the cornerstone gift from Mountaire Farms, Inc., puts us significantly closer to breaking ground for the new facility. The need for research, innovation, and teaching in poultry science is critical to support the ongoing growth in the poultry industry in the United States and worldwide.”

The new Poultry Science Center will provide modern research laboratories, classrooms, and demonstration spaces designed to foster collaboration among students, faculty, and industry experts. The facility will also have the capacity to produce 5,000 birds every six to eight weeks, providing an additional revenue stream to support teaching and learning at DelVal.

“We extend our thanks to Sen. Steve Santarsiero and Rep. Tim Brennan for their assistance in securing this grant,” said Dr. Rusiloski.

“Delaware Valley University, as a leader in agricultural science education, is uniquely positioned to meet the growing need for higher education programs focused on poultry science,” Sen. Santarsiero said. “The new Poultry Science Center will provide students with hands-on educational experience to successfully join this growing work force while providing continuing education to local processors and industry professionals.”

“In my first term, I worked to preserve agriculture space, advancing a bill to save more farms — a huge challenge in the 21st century,” said Rep. Brennan. “Projects like this make sure we are doing the most we can with that preserved space. Delaware Valley University has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in agricultural sciences, and the Poultry Science Center is a testament to the institution’s dedication to innovation and progress. This project is important to Bucks County, not only in terms of education and research, but also in promoting economic growth and sustainability.”

Learn more about how Delaware Valley University educates students with a curriculum that emphasizes and requires experiential learning.