Victoria’s Royal Roads University has officially opened the new Sherman Jen Building which included major renovations and upgrades to a century-old building (the former Mews Building) and construction of a modern addition.

Opened in early September 2018, the new centre features modern teaching spaces as well as enhancements to its original architectural and heritage features. It also houses upgraded and expanded science labs supporting research in marine geology, soil toxicity, habitats, migration and climate impacts.

“Students at Royal Roads University are discovering ways to solve real-world problems in environmental sustainability,” said Melanie Mark, B.C.’s Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “They’ll now have modern facilities to help them thrive and succeed. Royal Roads students are our future leaders in areas such as agricultural food waste management and innovative recycling initiatives, and they’re helping build the best B.C.”

The $24.8-million project budget includes $9.3 million from the Government of Canada’s Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund, $5.7 million from the Province of British Columbia, and $7 million from philanthropist Sherman Jen, with the balance supplied by Royal Roads University.

The 4,700 square-metre project includes 2,700 square metres of renovated space and a new 2,000 square-metre addition. The new facilities house environmental science teaching labs, wet labs, and academic support and integrated student service space.

The Sherman Jen building, with its light-filled gathering area, will be the campus hub for undergraduate students at Royal Roads. A new student commons space to foster international and intercultural understanding will help students from different backgrounds create lifelong connections and professional partnerships.