Science Quadrangle

Two principles are at work in this handsome quadrangle, which unites the natural sciences in facilities that opened between 2000 and 2002. One is the idea that undergraduates learn science best by doing science—in spacious teaching labs, with access to sophisticated instrumentation, and with many opportunities for individual and collaborative research. The other is the recognition that the different scientific disciplines overlap, with one another and with mathematics. New insights often arise from the points of connection.

Thus, the buildings in this complex not only provide modern, well-equipped spaces for classwork and research. They are also physically connected, via bridges and lounges that encourage students and faculty members from different disciplines to gather informally.

In addition to ample, comfortable lecture halls and separate laboratories for teaching and research, the buildings feature libraries, conference rooms, computer labs, and study areas. Designed by noted architect Graham Gund, Class of 1963, the three newer buildings in the quadrangle—Hayes Hall, Tomsich Hall, and the Fischman Wing of Higley Hall—subtly evoke the Perpendicular Gothic elements of Samuel Mather Hall, an older building that was completely renovated. The buildings are arranged around a sunny courtyard, where the focal point is a sculpture by eminent twentieth-century sculptor Henry Moore.

The science quadrangle includes:

Higley Hall (biology)
Fischman Wing of Higley Hall (biochemistry and molecular biology)
Tomsich Hall (chemistry)
Hayes Hall (mathematics and physics)
Samuel Mather Hall (neuroscience and psychology)
Philip Mather Courtyard

About Summer Science

The hallways of Kenyon's science buildings are lined with posters summarizing the results of research projects that students have undertaken, either individually or in collaboration with faculty members. Kenyon students regularly travel with their professors to national scientific meetings, where they present their research at poster sessions. In many cases, the research was completed as part of the College's Summer Science Scholar Program, which pays the students stipends so that they can spend the summer on campus, pursuing research under the supervision of faculty mentors.