Bethel Unveils the Nelson-Larson Science Center

Made possible by a longtime Bethel donor, partner, and friend who contributed a cash gift toward the effort, the newly completed science center features state-of-the-art laboratories and classroom space.

By Jenny Hudalla ’15, lead communications specialist

November 09, 2020 | 11:45 a.m.

The Nelson-Larson Science Center was unveiled October 22, 2020.

After more than a year of construction, the three-story, 18,000-square-foot Nelson-Larson Science Center is now complete. Formally unveiled on October 22, the science center was made possible by a gift from a longtime Bethel donor, partner, and friend who wishes to remain anonymous.

“God has placed in my heart the importance of Christ-centered organizations,” says the donor, who first became familiar with Bethel through friends at church. “I’ve been really encouraged by the way Bethel has adapted to meet the needs of the world. It isn’t just a place for Bible study—it’s a place where Christians can contribute to science in a meaningful way.”

The center sits on the edge of Lake Valentine and features innovative laboratory and classroom space for Bethel’s growing science programs. Private labs facilitate the collaboration of student-faculty research teams, fume hood-equipped work stations enhance learning spaces, and a large storage room houses nets, waders, and other equipment for student use in hands-on, outdoor labs.

"The Nelson-Larson Science Center propels Bethel’s scientific instruction and research capabilities to a new level. Bethel is known for its outstanding faculty and alumni who are at the forefront of their fields, and we are thrilled to be able to support their work and learning with cutting-edge facilities.”

— Jim Bender, vice president for advancement

With new opportunities for cross-disciplinary synergy, experiential learning, and industry research partnerships, Bethel’s physicists, biologists, chemists, and engineers will partner even more effectively to advance exciting work in space exploration, the prevention and cure of diseases, and other use of the sciences for human flourishing.

“Bethel establishes the groundwork for a lot of Christian service, educating people to serve God no matter where they might be,” says the donor. “These students will go on to have an impact on the rest of the world.”

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With degrees in biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and more, Bethel is preparing a generation of scientists who will make world-shaping discoveries and important ethical decisions through the lens of their faith.

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