Ripon College Celebrates Science Center and Stadium Groundbreakings

Ripon College celebrated the groundbreaking of two important campus projects – Franzen Science Center and the Red Hawks Stadium. The $35 million investment in strategic infrastructure projects support Ripon’s commitment to a history of academic excellence, enhanced campus vitality, and overall student experience. Kahler Slater is partnered with The Boldt Company to deliver both projects.

Franzen Science Center: The future Franzen Science Center includes a 68,500sf renovation of the 1960’s building along with a 19,000sf addition. To support an increase in student interest for STEM-related degrees, the building will feature new state-of-the-art laboratories, enhanced active learning classrooms, collaboration and gathering spaces, and be flexible to adapt to future needs. This project is expected to be completed in Fall 2024.

"With this project we are renovating and expanding a building,” said John Sisko, Vice President and Dean of Faculty, “but we are also examining new curricula and programs with the aim of renovating and expanding science education at Ripon College."

Red Hawks Stadium: With a goal to enhance the Red Hawks student-athlete experience and improve the vibrancy of campus life, the new 157,000sf stadium will be located adjacent to the Kahler Slater designed Willmore Center health and wellness facility on campus. The new outdoor campus stadium will house Ripon’s football and men's and women's soccer teams, as well as serve the entire student body and local community. The stadium will feature a 2,000-seat grandstand and press box, a formal entrance, and branding to enhance the game-day experience. Construction is estimated to be completed in Fall 2023.

"The construction of an on-campus stadium is proof of the commitment to athletics and our student-athlete experience,” said Jake Marshall, Head Football Coach. “Our players will have the best facilities in our conference and the location will allow our students and fans to make the Red Hawks gameday atmosphere one of the best in the region.”