Simonich Excited About College Of Ag Upgrades

Later this year, Oregon State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences plans to open Withycombe Hall following a full renovation.  College of Ag Dean Staci Simonich noted the $75 million in upgrades focused on a host of safety improvements, including fire, electrical, plumbing and accessibility.  But she added there will be exciting improvements for visitors to enjoy.

“It's going to be beautiful, we're going to have a storefront there, a “Beaver Classic” storefront, which is going to be so cool, because you'll be able to go down and have a milkshake, ice cream buy cheese, buy meat, buy various student made products, student marketed products in our store location. So that's going to be great.  But we’re also going to have a new winery, we're going to have a new creamery going to have new labs.”

The hope is to open Withycombe Hall in April.

She noted the improved class and lab space will also help the College attract the next generation of ag leaders, which is so important for the industry as a whole to be successful in the future.  She added reaching out to Gen Z remains a priority for her and the College.

“Helping them find their place in agriculture and natural resources. And be the next leaders at the table. That's really we have to do and want to do even more of that.”

Simonich added despite the struggles in the farm economy over recent years, the College of Agricultural Science has remained strong.  She noted that enrolment numbers in Corvallis, and statewide continue moving up, which is encouraging.

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