Florida Southern breaks ground for new Weinstein Computer Sciences Center

LAKELAND (Nov. 16, 2018) – FSC today marked a major expansion of its computer science program with a groundbreaking for the Carole and Marcus Weinstein Computer Sciences Center, which will provide a state-of-the-art computing environment for the growing department.

The dramatically distinctive structure, designed by architect and Frank Lloyd Wright scholar Jeffrey Baker of the firm Mesick Cohen Wilson Baker of Albany, N.Y., will overlook Lake Hollingsworth. In addition to cutting-edge classrooms and collaborative learning spaces, the new structure will house a Cybersecurity and Informatics Learning Lab, a Logistics Center Suite, and student technology centers.

“This is a grand occasion,” FSC President Dr. Anne Kerr said, welcoming guests to the groundbreaking event. She expressed great pride in the College’s determination to expand the computer science program, saying “it is incumbent upon Florida Southern College to be as advanced as possible for our students.” 

Dean of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Brad Hollingshead, stressed the importance of creating a “new home” for students in the computer science department, an academic environment that “will inspire, stimulate, and bring out the best in our students,” he said. “It is being designed, in the end, to empower them.”

“Florida Southern has been steadily expanding its computer science program over the past few years, with concentrations in web and cloud computing, AI and machine learning, and cybersecurity,” said Dr. Hollingshead. “The generous gift from Dr. and Mrs. Weinstein will help meet the needs of this growth, allow us to grow the program further, and prepare students for high-demand areas that require the expertise that they develop through our program.”

The Center, named for FSC Trustee Carole and Marcus Weinstein of Richmond, Va., will provide approximately 10,000 square feet of academic space, with an additional 3,000-square-foot auditorium and food venue.

“In the past five years, we have more than doubled the number of majors,” said Dr. Christian Roberson, chair of the Department of Computer Science. Three full-time faculty and one adjunct faculty member currently serve a student population of more than 80 full-time computer science majors.

The Carole and Marcus Weinstein Computer Sciences Center, which will be located between the Sharon and Jim France Admissions Center and the Becker Business Building, has an estimated completion date of spring 2020. Mr. Baker’s campus designs include the France Admissions Center, which was dedicated in December 2017. He serves as the lead architect for restorations of the College’s historic Frank Lloyd Wright structures.