UWRF celebrates SciTech grand opening with community celebration

UW-River Falls celebrates SciTech grand opening with community celebration  

April 1, 2026 — The University of Wisconsin-River Falls welcomed community members and special guests for a Grand Opening Celebration at the new Science and Technology Innovation Center (SciTech) on Tuesday. 

SciTech opened to students on Jan. 26 for the first day of spring semester classes. In addition to cutting-edge technology, the new building offers collaborative work and study spaces. 

During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth noted that the SciTech project had been in the works for around a decade and took the work of countless people to become a reality.

“Students, faculty, staff, campus leaders, alumni, business owners, community members and local and regional partners all played a vital role in advocating for and supporting this vision,” Chenoweth said. “To everyone who contributed - the impact of SciTech is part of your legacy. On behalf of future generations of Falcons, thank you!”

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers said SciTech will have a profound impact, bringing a new era of innovation to UWRF and the region. 

“Our ability to be successful and thrive as a state depends upon the University of Wisconsin System, including the good folks and work that’s going on right here at UW-River Falls,” Evers said. “This center will create new and innovative industries and prepare our workforce for the future. I’m looking forward to seeing how future generations of students will continue to be encouraged to reach their dreams and build a stronger future here at River Falls for years to come.”

Other speakers at the ribbon-cutting ceremony included Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman, Wisconsin State Representative Shannon Zimmerman, UWRF Assistant Chancellor for University Advancement Rick Foy, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Karl Peterson and Student Government Association President Maddie Nelson.

Hundreds of community members took the opportunity to tour the new facility. Bill Benert of Stillwater, Minn., a 1984 UWRF alum, said he had been watching the building take shape over the past two years and was excited to get inside and have a look. Benert said he was very impressed with the technology, pointing out the virtual dissection tables in the anatomy and physiology lab, and that he appreciated the bright and airy design of the building. 

“I have good memories from going here years ago,” Benert said. “To have this here bodes well for the university, the students and the town. I’m happy to see it move forward.”

SciTech features 32 undergraduate research spaces, 12 instructional labs and flexible student and faculty collaboration spaces. The building is the new home of hands-on learning opportunities in biology, biotechnology, chemistry, neuroscience, physics and psychology at UWRF. It also houses the new University Business Collaboration Center (UBCC), designed to accelerate collaboration and partnerships with businesses in STEM fields and beyond.

Photo: UW-River Falls Interim Chancellor John Chenoweth cuts the ribbon during a grand opening celebration for the Science and Technology Innovation Center on Tuesday as Governor Tony Evers, State Representative Shannon Zimmerman and other university officials and special guests look on. Hundreds of community members toured the new facility, which opened to students January 26. UWRF photo.