MBU dedicates Jung-Kellogg Learning Center

In conjunction with Homecoming 2019, Missouri Baptist University celebrated the completion of the Jung-Kellogg Learning Center on Oct. 18 with a formal dedication and ribbon cutting.

The new Learning Center, formerly the Jung-Kellogg Library, is aimed at empowering the 21st-century student to engage in innovative learning. As part of the project, the University worked to significantly downsize its print collection to provide space for the project. The Learning Center includes collaborative workstations, ideation labs equipped with state-of-the-art technology, a state-of-the-art pitch room complete with video conferencing capabilities, and the mbu Makerspace, an area designed to encourage creativity and teamwork. The recently-aligned Office of Alumni Engagement and Career Development is also housed in the Learning Center, emphasizing the University’s priority to prepare students for a life of service and success upon graduation.

“Today, we take the next step as we add the resources of tomorrow to the resources of yesterday,” said President Ross. “This renovation will support our continual transformation in the way we create, preserve and disseminate knowledge.”

The donor-funded project was led by alumni and a planning committee of faculty, students and staff. Construction began in summer 2019; the space opened for student use earlier this fall.

Clockwise: President Ross greets guests at the dedication of the Jung-Kellogg Learning Center. // Trustees, donors and members of the committee pose for a picture. // Students explore and socialize in the new Learning Center. // Marshall and Betty Jung, whose name is on the Learning Center, pose for a picture in the Learning Center’s living room. // Dr. Darrell Gwaltney, ‘83, dean and chair of Biblical Studies and Preaching at Belmont University, addresses guests. The quiet room is named in recognition of Gwaltney’s support of mbu

The Fish Makerspace

The FISH Makerspace is a creative space where students can participate in collaborative and innovative learning. This flexible learning space includes Apple computers with creative software and high-top whiteboard tables, so students can sketch out ideas, notes and designs. The space includes overhead outlets and a retractable glass “garage door” wall that can be easily opened or closed for multifunctional use.

The Petty Commons

The Petty Commons is an inviting open area complete with a fireplace, comfortable couches and chairs, custom-made trestle tables and a four-screen TV wall. The TV wall broadcasts multiple news and entertainment sources throughout the day. Each screen can be used independently or combined into one large, single image. Students can also wirelessly cast their device to any of the screens for presentations.

Clockwise: The Makerspace invites students to collaborate together with whiteboard tables, outlets and state-of-the-art computers. // The Petty Commons invites students to study in a comfortable yet inspiring environment. // Students have direct access to career and alumni support inside of the new Learning Center. // The Petty Commons is a brightly-lit space for students to focus on homework.

THE GWALTNEY QUIET ROOM

This set-apart space allows students a quiet place to focus on their studies. Students can work at tables or use provided Apple computers.

THE DUVALL PITCH ROOM

This technology-rich space utilizes the latest technology and transforms the classroom into an industry-like setting. The Duvall Pitch Room is optimized for video conferencing and open to students when not reserved.

THE DIEHL FAMILY IDEATION LAB AND THE HENRY IDEATION LAB

The ideation labs provide small groups to collaborate and study together. The spaces include the ability for students to cast their devices to a television, fostering further collaboration.

THE CONFERENCE ROOM

The Conference Room provides a space for organizations and teams to meet in a collaborative environment. The 75-inch screen allows easy wireless screen sharing and a quiet space for concentration. ■