Strategically located across from the cluster of biotechnology companies in Progress Park along Highway 441 south of Alachua, the Perry Center for Emerging Technologies will be home to the college’s new four-year degree program in clinical laboratory science as well as its growing programs in biomedical engineering and biotechnology laboratory technology. Nearly one fourth of the 17,367 new square foot building will be clinical lab space.
As the newest of Santa Fe’s six regional campuses, the Perry Center includes space for a conference center and classrooms to enable residents of Alachua/High Springs to pursue a college education close to home, beginning in 2010.
When asked what motivated Chuck and Nancy Perry to provide the generous gift that enabled the construction of this Center for Emerging Technologies, Nancy replied simply, “We wanted to help the young people of this area get good jobs, because having a good job changes lives.
“This center will educate people for jobs in new and expanding fields, like biotechnology and clinical laboratory science,” she added, “which are especially important in this area. And won’t it be wonderful if our young people can qualify for such good jobs without ever having to leave their home town?”
According to the director of the Perry Center for Emerging Technologies, Dr. Kelly Gridley, the college’s biotechnology program has long been a valued partner to many of the companies clustered in the Progress Corporate Park.
“When I joined Santa Fe five years ago, I was ready for a new challenge after years of doing research,” she explained. “And guiding this program has truly exceeded my expectations!”
Recently appointed as Santa Fe’s newest dean, Dr. Gridley reiterated the strategic value of locating the new center so close to the biotech cluster of companies in Alachua. “Our students are able to observe these companies and even work part time there, in real jobs. In turn, the companies get to know our students well. When they graduate, they offer them good jobs with benefits and a career ladder.
“When you also consider the biotech magnet program for Santa Fe High School students, the Center for Excellence in Regenerative Health and Technology, you realize we are building an incredible pipeline for success in preparing our young people for the jobs of the future, right here in Alachua.
“I think that’s one of the real joys of my job, seeing the career path we are creating for so many,” she concluded. “I expect our enrollment to triple in a very short time.”
he dedication of the Perry Center is scheduled for September 18, 2009. Approximately 100 students are expected to attend classes on that campus when the term begins. For more information on the new Center or any Santa Fe programs, visit the website at www.sfcollege.edu. |
