U. celebrates IAST complex with unveiling of Vagelos Labs

It looked as if the University had run out of glasses and flower pots, as beakers filled with chilled water and blooming red roses adorned tables on Smith Walk yesterday. But the chemistry lab supplies were more than makeshift table settings. They symbolized what University President Judith Rodin called "a new chapter in the history of scientific progress at Penn," marked by the unveiling of the Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories of the Institute for Advanced Science and Technology. The building, at 34th Street and Smith Walk, houses two interdisciplinary research centers -- the Institute for Medicine and Engineering and the Center for Excellence in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. Construction of the laboratories began in October 1995 with the help of a $10 million donation by University Board of Trustees Chairperson Roy Vagelos and his wife, Diana. Vagelos, a 1950 College graduate, is the former chairperson and chief executive officer of the New Jersey-based Merck pharmaceutical and health care company. Additional funding for the construction came from $27 million in United States Air Force grants. The building's opening was celebrated with a full day of technology-focused events, attended by local politicians, health care experts and University administrators. Chemistry Professor Ralph Hirschmann moderated a morning symposium, entitled "Basic Science Contributions to World Health." And Mayor Ed Rendell, U.S. Rep. Chaka Fattah (D-Pa.) and Philadelphia Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell were on hand for the dedication luncheon and ribbon-cutting ceremony. During the luncheon, Rodin spoke about the laboratories' potential to positively influence the future of technology. "The Vagelos Laboratories embody the goals of Penn's strategic plan, Agenda for Excellence, with their commitment to engaging outstanding faculty and students in interdisciplinary, cross-school research and the creative deployment of new technologies," Rodin said. She also announced Vagelos' new $10 million commitment towards the creation of the Vagelos Scholars Program, a molecular life sciences program for College of Arts and Sciences undergraduates. The day continued with a second symposium, "Horizons at the Institute for Advanced Science and Technology," moderated by Vice Provost for Research Ralph Amado. A reception and open house allowed members of the University community to schmooze as they snacked on an assortment of breads, cheeses and vegetables. "Here we will not just make new ideas, we will make new idea makers," Amado said at the reception. Rodin expressed her deep gratitude toward the Vageloses. "Without Roy and Diana Vagelos, this would only be a dream," she said. "We will make this dream a reality." The distinguished guests, faculty and students were invited to tour the building that Rodin said will "redefine the boundaries of today's science and engineering."