TOPPING OFF THE SCIENCE CENTER

As the new Science Center continues to take shape, the College will hold a steel topping off ceremony for the building on Tuesday, April 8 starting at 10 a.m.

An industry tradition, a topping off ceremony marks a project turning point with a shift in focus from exterior to interior work. 

Come Sign the Beam
From 10 a.m. through 11:30 a.m., all members of the Stonehill community are invited come to the site and to sign the steel beam. 

At 11:45 a.m., once the signings are complete, the ironworkers will have the honor of hoisting the steel beam in place.

As is custom, an evergreen tree will be placed on the beam to symbolize that the building project is proceeding well, and as a token of “good luck” for the Science Center’s future occupants. 

To the left of the tree, an American flag will fly. While to the right of the tree, a Stonehill banner will fly.  As is their tradition, the ironworkers will hoist a P.O.W. flag as well.

President Mark T. Cregan, C.S.C. will preside and the beam will be blessed. 

Reception 
Following the topping off, a reception will be held from noon to 1 p.m. in the adjacent Martin Auditorium and Garden Room. Refreshments will be provided.

Directions
To access the construction site, please walk from the quad area between the Martin Institute and Cardinal O’Hara Hall toward the roadway beside the Ames Pond all the way to the gate in the construction fencing just south of the crane. 

The $34 million, 89,000-square-foot Science Center is on schedule to be completed in 2009.

Issued 04/01/08