Smithsonian and George Mason Break Ground on New Academic Center

Scientists and educators from the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and George Mason University are donning their hard hats and dusting off their shovels to break ground June 29 on a green-design conservation complex that embodies the concept of the living classroom. Since October 2008, the Smithsonian--Mason Global Conservation Studies Program has trained future conservationists with an interdisciplinary and interactive program at SCBI headquarters, the Smithsonian National Zoological Park's 3,200-acre facility in Front Royal, Va. There, undergraduate, graduate and professional students from the U.S. and abroad participate in courses taught by prominent scientists and educators from the Zoo, Mason, and other institutions.

The Smithsonian--Mason Program began with 15 undergraduate students in the fall of 2008. When the expansion is complete in fall 2012, SCBI Front Royal will be able to accept 60 undergraduate students and 60 graduate students and professionals.

• Category

  Pets & Animals