UNMC
— Williams
Science Hall
Renovation
Ranked among the top programs in the U.S., the College of Pharmacy at the University of Nebraska Medical Center trains some of the most sought-after professionals in the fields of medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, drug delivery, biophysics, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
The Joseph D. & Millie E. Williams Science Hall was built in 1976 to house offices, labs, and classrooms outfitted with the cutting-edge technology of the time. To meet the evolving needs of the student community, UNMC and RDG reimagined Williams Science Hall as an interconnected hub of student life. The redesigned building now houses the UNMC High School Alliance, Student Services, Graduate Studies, International Health and Medical Education Offices, Alumni Relations and several UNMC College of Pharmacy labs. Creating a more welcoming, creative and collaborative environment was a priority across the nearly 65,000 square feet of renovated space. Both practical and aesthetic choices were guided by the College's values of innovation, teamwork, accountability, courage and healing. The new building has more inclusive ADA compliant entrances, stairwells and restrooms. Mechanical, electrical, fire protection and telecommunications systems were updated. Movement and light were brought into the previously dark, heavy spaces of the 70s, and the exterior façade of the building was completely renewed. Lab spaces were updated to keep researchers competitive in the search for discoveries and to create hands-on learning opportunities for high school student programs. And the artistic feature wall in the four-story atrium at the heart of the building bridges the College's rich history to the Hall's newly defined purpose.