Morrell Science Center – Dr. Patricia Brown Student Study Lounge

External Views                  Internal Views 

The School of Science at Siena has long been known for its passion for academic excellence.  For this reason, the School’s visionary leaders both past and present have insisted on the very best possible facilities to promote student achievement.   

Roger Bacon Hall, the first Siena facility devoted exclusively to Science programs, served students well for nearly 33 years.  The building was reconfigured several times in an effort to meet the changing needs of the Science programs.  In the end, the evolution of our Science programs exceeded the limitations of Roger Bacon Hall.  After a successful capital campaign, the Morrell Science Center, which wraps around the north and east sides of Roger Bacon Hall, was constructed, and Roger Bacon Hall was renovated to complement the Morrell Science Center facilities.   

The original plans for the northeast corner of the Morrell Science Center included a study room for students.  However, due to cost considerations at the time, that space instead became an outdoor patio.  Colleagues, former students, family, and friends recently proposed converting this little-used patio space into an indoor student study lounge in honor of the late Dr. Patricia Brown.   

Dr. Patricia Brown died of breast cancer on November 13, 2004.  Dr. Brown was not just an outstanding teacher and scientist; she was mentor, friend and confidante to her colleagues and students in the Biology Department at Siena College.  Dr. Brown’s dedication to her students during her 35 years at Siena is legendary.  She personified excellence and perseverance, and pushed her students to achieve at the highest level.  Dr. Brown’s teaching philosophy was student-centered; each facet of her teaching and research career was all about her students.  This new space will be named for Dr. Patricia Brown and will include a permanent display commemorating her life and contributions to the students of Siena College.