After the dedication of Tutt Science Center, Professor Jeff Noblett shows geology alumni how new tables in the mineralogy/petrology lab are designed especially for the Block Plan. Foreground: a crystal model showing the position of atoms in a mineral structure.

by Marshall Kean
photos by Tom Kimmell

One of the major highlights of Homecoming 2003 was the long-anticipated dedication of the Russell T. Tutt Science Center, which completes a triad of science complexes begun in 1962 with Olin Hall and continued in 1988 with Barnes Science Center.

From the beginning, Colorado College envisioned a facility that would address the academic needs of 21st century scientists and citizens. The 51,000-square-foot complex north of Barnes Science Center houses the departments of psychology and mathematics and the interdisciplinary programs of neuroscience and environmental sciences, and offers lab and classroom space for geology. It’s in the process of becoming certified as a “green building” on the basis of its energy and atmospheric impact, indoor environmental quality, and water efficiency, among other factors.

In a private reception, CC President Richard F. Celeste acknowledged the initial lead gift of $5 million from El Pomar Foundation as well as donors who funded specific labs and other facilities. Russell Tutt’s daughter, Marne Tutt P ’03, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition of her late father. Margaret Mathias ’57 offered impressions on the impact of this facility on the future of science education at CC.

President Celeste and R. Thayer Tutt Jr. unveil the major donor plaque during the dedication of the Russell T. Tutt Science Center. Cathy Robbins of El Pomar Foundation and Kent Olin, El Pomar Foundation trustee, look on.

At the public dedication, President Celeste described to several hundred attendees the many contributions of the Tutt family to the college. Tutt, a former chairman of El Pomar, served as a CC trustee from 1957 until his death in 1992 and chaired that board from 1966 to 1984.

Current board Chair Van Skilling ’55, who co-chaired the steering committee with trustee Vice-chair Suzanne Woolsey P ’97 ’98 ’99, spoke about working with staff, faculty, and donors on making the center a reality. Professor Jeff Noblett, who chaired the design team, spoke from the faculty’s perspective about changes it has brought to teaching. Emily Wright ’04, an environmental science major, added her thoughts from the student perspective.

Former CC Trustee R. Thayer Tutt Jr., president and chief investment officer of El Pomar Foundation and son of the late Russell T. Tutt, responded on behalf of his family. After a formal ribbon cutting, guests were given guided tours by faculty and students.

>Russel T. Tutt Science Center Web Site