The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center has received a $300,000 grant from the Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia to support the creation of a new state-of-the-art science laboratory that will expand access to advanced STEM education for students across the region.
The project represents a collaborative investment totaling $600,000. In addition to Wellspring Foundation’s contribution, the A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School will provide $150,000 toward laboratory equipment and furnishings, while the SWVA Higher Ed Center will contribute $150,000 toward renovation costs.
The new laboratory will transform a 1,300-square-foot space into a modern science classroom designed to meet the growing needs of the SWVA Higher Ed Center’s educational partners. Once complete, the lab will feature six student workstations accommodating up to 24 students, a teacher demonstration station, dedicated preparation and storage space, and modern safety equipment to support advanced science instruction.
“As enrollment continues to grow across several of our academic programs, it’s essential that our facilities grow alongside them,” said David Matlock, executive director of the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Wellspring Foundation for helping us create a learning environment that will prepare students for careers in healthcare, science, technology, and other high-demand fields for years to come.”
The lab will immediately support regional high school students enrolled in the A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School and the Healthcare Excellence Academy Lab School (HEALS), both of which continue to experience increasing enrollment and demand for advanced science instruction.
“Wellspring Foundation of Southwest Virginia is proud to partner with the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center on this important expansion,” said Sean McMurray, executive director of the Wellspring Foundation. “These improvements will enhance learning opportunities for nearly 800 students at A. Linwood Holton Governor’s School and the Healthcare Excellence Academy Lab Schools (HEALS), reflecting our commitment to investing in the future of our region.”
Construction is expected to begin this fall with the laboratory anticipated to open in spring 2027.
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