Rep. McNally Announces $806,247 to Support Youngstown State University STEM Science Lab Renovations

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) today announced the Controlling Board has approved $806, 247 for Youngstown State University STEM Science Lab Renovations in Ward Beecher Hall, including upgrades to interior finishes, electrical/lighting, classroom accessibility, classroom HVAC, technology accessibility, and laboratory working surfaces.

“This investment will reduce the maintenance backlog at YSU and give our students the level of experience all Ohio’s schools should be delivering,” said Rep. McNally. “I’m thankful for the opportunities created by these state dollars like safer, more accessible and up-to-date learning environments with the latest technology and equipment. That is how we nurture the minds of the future.”

The project will consist of renovations to a number of STEM Science Labs in YSU's Ward Beecher Hall, which houses the departments of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics and Astronomy, labs that see a great deal of use and have not been upgraded in several years. This important project will invest heavily in YSU students' learning environment and the University’s existing campus facilities. The project was bid on March 29, 2023, allowing the state dollars to support the start of construction.

“Investments like this help to ensure that YSU maintains its competitiveness when it comes to attracting new students, and as a foundation of our community, the more YSU can grow, the more the Valley can grow,” said Rep. McNally.